A getaway in Ajaccio? Take the opportunity to visit Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Cathedral! Located in the old town, this religious edifice with its Latin cross architecture faces the sea. We were particularly impressed by the striking contrast between its relatively sober ochre façade and its richly decorated Baroque interior.
In this article, you’ll find some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a great time!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Why visit the Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption in Ajaccio?
Is the cathedral worth it? Our opinion:
Yes, the cathedral is well worth a visit. It houses some unique treasures, including Napoleon Bonaparte’s baptistery and a remarkable painting by Eugène Delacroix. We were particularly taken by the richly decorated side chapels and the unique atmosphere that emanates from this place steeped in history. The monumental organ built by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll in 1846 also contributes to the majesty of the setting. It’s one of one of Ajaccio’s best activities!
Why is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta famous?
Ajaccio Cathedral owes its fame mainly to its connection with Napoleon Bonaparte, who was baptized here on July 21, 1771. It is also a remarkable example of Baroque architecture, listed as a Monument Historique since 1906. We were captivated by Eugène Delacroix’s famous painting Triomphe de la religion ou Vierge au Sacré-Coeur, while the majestic polychrome marble high altar, a gift from Elisa Bonaparte, sublimates the whole.
Our favorite moments
Our visit had many memorable moments:
- The impressive view of the nave, whose majesty captured us from the moment we arrived.
- The monumental organ built by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll in 1846, a true masterpiece.
- The historic marble baptistery on which Napoleon I was baptized, a silent witness to history
History in brief
Here are the major milestones in the cathedral’s history over the centuries:
- Mid-16th century: construction of the cathedral to replace an earlier, destroyed church
- 1593: structural work completed (finishing work continued until the mid-17th century)
- 18th and 19th centuries: numerous alterations and embellishments (reconstruction of side chapels)
- July 21, 1771: Baptism of Napoleon I
- 1811: installation of the new high altar donated by Princess Elisa Bacciocchi
- 1906: listed as a Historical Monument
- 2002: transfer to the responsibility of the Territorial Collectivity of Corsica
Access: Ajaccio Cathedral, Corsica
Where is the cathedral?
- South Corsica
- Ajaccio city center
- It overlooks Piazza Matre Teresa
- Opposite Plage Saint-François
- Near Maison Bonaparte
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How to get there?
The cathedral is within easy walking distance of the city center. The local Muvistrada bus network crosses the city. The nearest stop to the cathedral, “Place de Gaulle”, is just a 4-minute walk away. For more information, visit the official public transport website here.
Parking
Parking du Diamant is just a 2-minute walk from the cathedral.
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Best time to visit
We recommend an early morning visit, between 8:30 and 10 a.m., when the morning light sublimates the ochre facade. The late afternoon also offers a special atmosphere, with the sun’s rays streaming through the stained glass windows. For greater peace and quiet, avoid times of religious celebration and prefer periods out of the tourist season, especially July and August.
Length of visit and main difficulties
Allow around 30min to explore the cathedral.
The church building is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility, with a dedicated entrance via Rue Saint Charles. We have noticed, however, that some side chapels have steps.
Advice on how to visit
Start your visit by admiring the cathedral’s ochre façade and imposing dome from Piazza Matre Teresa. Enter the building and contemplate the side chapels, paying particular attention to Notre-Dame del Pianto with its exuberant stuccoes and frescoes. Take time to admire the organ that dominates the hall. Then head for the white marble baptistery where Napoleon was baptized. End your tour with a final overview of the nave before exiting.
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Visiting with children
The visit is not particularly suitable for children, but can be an opportunity to introduce them to an important part of Corsican history.
Schedules and rates
The cathedral is open from 8.30am to 11.30am and 2.30pm to 5.45pm Monday to Saturday, and from 8.30am to 11.30am on Sundays.
Admission is free.
Catering
There are no food outlets in the cathedral, but you’ll find the Restaurant Bistro Canaille adjacent to the religious building. It is featured in our article on the city’s best restaurants!
An ochre façade facing the sea
The façade of Ajaccio Cathedral is distinguished by its beautiful ochre color. It exudes a unique charm that invites contemplation. We were immediately seduced by its elegant simplicity, which contrasts with the richness of its interior.
Baroque architecture with many details
Dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the cathedral is a perfect example of Counter-Reformation architecture, with its characteristic Latin cross plan. Once inside, we were overwhelmed by the multitude of details on display for even the most curious eyes.
The magic really works in this space, where light plays with volumes and decorations. You’re sure to be impressed by the harmony that emanates from this unique architectural ensemble, where every element is of striking finesse!
A rich history marked by Napoleon
We noticed a pink marble plaque on the first pillar as you enter the cathedral on the left. Here you can read the emperor’s last wishes: “If my corpse is proscribed from Paris as my person has been proscribed, I wish to be buried alongside my ancestors in Ajaccio Cathedral, Corsica”. This inscription bears witness to Napoleon’s deep bond with his homeland and the cathedral where he was baptized.
A jewel of Corsican heritage
Listed as a historic monument since 1906, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is a veritable showcase of sacred art. We particularly appreciated its elaborate chapels and notable religious works, which you’ll be delighted to discover in your own time.
Remarkable chapels
The cathedral’s chapels are veritable Baroque art treasures. Beyond the chapel of the Madonna del Pianto, the oldest, we were particularly impressed by the chapels of Our Lady of Mercy and Our Lady of the Rosary. While the former is richly decorated, the latter also deserves your attention, as it housed the tomb of the Bonaparte family before the Imperial Chapel was built.
Sacred works
The building is home to exceptional works of art that bear witness to its historical importance. We were particularly impressed by Eugène Delacroix’s painting of the Virgin of the Sacred Heart. You can also admire wall paintings attributed to Domenico del Tintoretto. The high altar, donated in 1811 by Princess Elisa, Napoleon’s sister, is a remarkable piece that originally came from Lucca’s Church of the Dead.
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Frequently asked questions
Was Napoleon really baptized in Ajaccio Cathedral?
Yes, Napoleon Bonaparte was indeed baptized in Ajaccio Cathedral on July 21, 1771, at the age of one. The marble baptistery where the ceremony took place is still visible today.
Does Ajaccio Cathedral host major events?
The cathedral hosts a number of major religious events throughout the year, including the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and the Feast of St. Nicholas. Traditional Corsican processions are also held here. A major event is expected in December 2024 with the Pope’s visit to Corsica.
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