Corte (Corti)

Introducing Corte (Corti)

To truly experience Corsican culture, head to Corte (pronounced Cor-tay), its heartland. Since Pasquale Paoli created an independent nation in 1755 and made this fortified town its capital, Corte continues to be a potent symbol of Corsican independence. Paoli founded a national university here in 1765, but it was closed four years later when the short-lived Corsican republic foundered. Università di Corsica Pasquale Paoli was reopened in 1981. It has about 3000 students and is a lynchpin in the revival of the Corsican language.

Cradled by mountains, hiking in the area is some of the island’s best. The town marks the midpoint on the Mare a Mare Nord trail.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009