Sartène: The Corsican town of a thousand steps. Sartène, nicknamed “the most Corsican of Corsican towns”, is a unique destination that captivates visitors with its authentic character and spectacular scenery. This medieval town, perched on the heights of southern Corsica, offers a unique urban experience.
An exceptional topography. The most striking feature of Sartène is its extremely rugged topography. Every street in the town is either uphill or downhill, creating a dizzying and picturesque urban landscape. This unique configuration gives Sartène its incomparable charm and makes it a real challenge for walkers.
The emblematic staircases. One of Sartène’s most striking features is its network of ancient staircases. These flights of steps, each steeper than the last, wind their way through the town, linking the different levels and districts. These staircases are not only functional, they are also an integral part of the city’s architectural heritage, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding rooftops and mountains.
The unique architecture of the balconies. Walking through the narrow streets of Sartène, you can’t fail to notice the many small balconies that adorn the facades of the houses. These architectural features add charm and character to the buildings, while offering residents a private outdoor space, so precious in this densely built-up town.
An architectural curiosity: toilets on balconies. An intriguing detail of Sarten architecture is the presence of toilets on some of these small balconies. This feature seems to be the result of later additions, probably made to modernise the old dwellings without altering their internal structure. This ingenious solution is a testament to the city’s ability to adapt to modern needs while preserving its historic character.
An immersive experience in Corsican history. To visit Sartène is to immerse yourself in the living history of Corsica. Every alleyway, every staircase and every balcony tells a story, offering visitors an authentic, immersive experience of the island’s culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of unique architecture or simply looking for an out-of-the-ordinary urban experience, Sartène will captivate you. Get ready to climb its staircases, marvel at its panoramic views and discover the hidden secrets of this extraordinary Corsican town.