Bastia’s Old Port

Tucked into a small cove at the foot of the mountains, Bastia’s Old Port is one of the must-see highlights of Corsica, the Island of Beauty.

Today, it’s only used by pleasure boats, but its history goes back to the 11th century. At that time, fishermen settled around this natural cove, built huts, and began trading wine with the Pisans. Their boats were docked here, while they lived in the village of Cardo, located higher up in the hills above Bastia. Back then, the port was known as la marine de Cardo.

When the Genoese took control of the city in the 14th century, the port area expanded rapidly. It was soon surrounded by governors’ houses and began to welcome increasingly larger ships. In the 17th century, it developed into a proper port, after the construction of a jetty and the growth of maritime trade.

With the arrival of more modern harbours in the 19th century, the area was renamed Bastia’s Old Port. Today, the Old Port has kept its soul and character, making it not only a marina but also one of the most picturesque and authentic parts of the city, perfect for a stroll or a drink at one of the bars along the water.

It’s still lined with historic buildings, like the pink house you see in front of you, Casa Castagnola, which dates back to the 16th century, and the yellow Casa Figarelli beside it. To the left of the pink house stands a much newer building, built after World War II, during which the Old Port suffered heavy damage. This postwar structure was designed by architects Fernand Pouillon and Louis de Casabianca.

As you’ve probably gathered, the Old Port is one of the most historic and atmospheric spots in Bastia, and the perfect place to soak in the Mediterranean spirit and the rhythm of the city.