Sartène Travel Guide
Towns and cities in Corsica
Described as “la plus Corse des villes Corses” (the most Corsican of Corsican towns) by French novelist Prosper Mérimée, Sartène has been shaped by its charming traditions and a rich past. From its medieval streets and fortified stone buildings to its atmospheric mountainous roots, this town offers a unique glimpse into the soul of Corsica.
About the area
Sitting at 300 metres above sea level, Sartène enjoys enchanting views over the southern hills and mountains of Corsica’s vast hinterland. Sartène is a town that has grown organically from the granite hillside on which it stands, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Built up in the mid-16th century by the Genoese as a refuge from coastal attacks, Sartène’s old town is a maze of alleyways, staircases, and seemingly secret passages that have witnessed centuries of history. The heart of Sartène is Place Porta, a lively square where locals come together and one can enjoy mouthwatering traditional fare – everything from cheeses, cured meats, chestnut-flour bread and cakes, and numerous age-old recipes. Beyond its historic streets, Sartène offers panoramic views over Corsica’s countryside, home to over 2,500 hectares of vineyards and a gateway to the island’s rich culinary traditions and natural beauty.
Things to do in Sartène
- Wander through the medieval old town: Explore the labyrinth alleyways and staircases of Sartène's oldest quarter, built on several levels, where some paths lead to solid solid blocks of granite. The 17th century part of town is also worth exploring, not least for its shops and the Musée de Préhistoire et d'Archéologie Corse, home to an excellent collection of finds from archaeological sites nearby, including those of Cauria, Funtanaccia, and Paddaghju.
- Explore the Place de la Libération: This triangular, tree-lined square is the true centre of town, home to Hôtel de Ville, a 16th century fortified construction once home to the Genoese governor, and the fine, 18th-century granite church of Sainte-Marie. This church boasts a three-tiered bell and clock tower and some beautiful, vibrant decoration inside.
- Browse the Saturday morning market at Place Porta: Place Porta is the social hub of town, a meeting place where residents come together for a drink in the cafés and bars, dine late into the evening, and shop convivially at the Saturday morning market. Here you’ll be able to sample authentic Corsican food, as Sartène boasts an excellent selection of restaurants, butchers’, delicatessens and greengrocers.
- Visit a local vineyard: The surrounding vineyards produce some excellent appellation AOC vintages, and there are many wineries around Sartène offering relaxed tasting experiences.
- Experience the Catenacciu procession: If you’re in the south of Corsica for Easter, head to Sartène on Good Friday to watch the historic Catenacciu procession, which sees a heavy cross and chain dragged around town by a hooded penitent. The tradition of pelting the penitent with stones and rotten vegetables no longer exists and it is now an honour to be chosen as the town’s symbolic sinner.
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