Saint Florent
San Fiurenzu, 1689 Population 0 to 356 meters 1798 hectares
To discover
The Little Corsican Saint-Tropez
Saint-Florent (San Fiurenzu) is the "Little Corsican Saint-Tropez," a port city featuring bustling commercial streets and numerous restaurants lining the port of Saint-Florent, where the most beautiful yachts dock each summer. The city is also distinguished by its Citadel overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Florent and Roya Beach stretching for one kilometer.
Historical Heritage
Citadel of Saint-Florent
The port city is primarily known for its imposing Citadel that dominates the Gulf of Saint-Florent. It was built in 1440 during the Genoese period at the behest of Janus Campofregoso, who was then waging war against the island's rebellion, and who was a Genoese politician and nephew of the Duke of Genoa, Tomaso, bearing the same name.
The Citadel may have been constructed near the ancient sanctuary that preserved, until the 12th century, the relics of Saint-Florent, as well as Latin inscriptions indicating that the site was also the scene of a significant battle during the Roman era, likely the Battle of the Field of Myrtles, according to the book "History of Corsica" by Marc'Antonio Ceccaldi.
It was enhanced and fortified several times over the centuries. Today, it stands as the iconic monument of Saint Florent, attracting numerous visitors annually, and its grounds are frequently used for music festivals.
Port of Saint-Florent
The port of Saint-Florent - Mare e Stagnu, Sea and Lagoon - spans the entire historic center of Saint-Florent on the southern side, extending into a breakwater. It is one of the town's major assets. Now a marina with a few fishing boats, it was once a bustling and strategic commercial port for trade with Genoa, significantly contributing to the development of Saint-Florent during the 15th century.
The first boats are moored at the quay beginning at the iron bridge spanning the Aliso River. In total, the port of Saint-Florent has approximately 920 berths, including 670 annual moorings and 250 temporary spots managed by the Harbour Master’s Office.
Fountains
In the middle of Place Doria stands a four-sided fountain adorned with four frog statuettes at its base and a plaque inscribed with "La Fontaine de Jean - 1995."
Place des Portes
Located in the heart of Saint-Florent, Place des Portes marks the entrance to the old town and its commercial streets. With its square patch of ground, it is a favored spot for pétanque players all year round.
Mortella Tower
The Genoese Mortella Tower was used to monitor the Gulf of Saint-Florent. It is accessible via the Customs Path, but the best view is from the sea.
Built in the mid-16th century by the Genoese, it was partially destroyed at the end of the 18th century by British troops, but its resilience was such that it inspired a British admiral who had several dozen replicas constructed along the British coast, known as Martello Towers.
Saint Anne Church
Saint Anne Church dates back to the 18th century, measuring approximately 20 meters by 10 meters. It has a square bell tower and is located in the center of the village on Church Square.
In 2017, the church was renovated by local artisans and funded by the municipality of Saint-Florent, preserving the religious and historical heritage of Saint-Florent.
Saint Anne celebrated on July 26
Every year on July 26, a mass dedicated to Saint Anne is celebrated, followed by a procession during which the statue of Saint Anne is carried through the streets of central Saint-Florent before returning to the church. It is also an opportunity for villagers to gather and share a friendly drink.
Beaches of Saint-Florent
Lotu Beach
The beaches of Lotu and Saleccia are separated by a coastal point (Punta di Curza) of only 2km. Lotu Beach is smaller than its neighbor, with approximately 360 meters of beach, plus a small cove (Petit Lotu Beach). It straddles the municipalities of Santo-Pietro-di-Tenda and Saint-Florent.
Access is the same as for Saleccia, either by track or by sea. Unlike Saleccia, Lotu Beach has a pier that allows dry foot disembarkation and boarding.
Note that "Plage du Lotus" does not exist in Corsica; the "t" in Lotu (Loto in French) is pronounced as "d," which probably explains why there is so little chance, unfortunately, of leaving Lotu richer than when you arrived.
Roya Beach
At the southern entrance of Saint-Florent, just after the iron bridge, directly on the right, lies Roya Beach, which stretches for 1km. It starts with a small beach offering all amenities, including a hotel and a sailing club (catamarans, optimists, windsurfing, kayaking), followed by a much longer extended beach. It is ideal for children, with shallow waters along its edges. This fine sandy beach is very popular in summer.
Ospedale Beach
Ospedale Beach is a straight pebble beach over a kilometer long, located at the northeastern exit of Saint-Florent on the road leading to Patrimonio. More urban, Ospedale Beach offers several advantages over Roya Beach, such as easier access without dead ends and less traffic congestion. It is also directly accessible on foot from the coastal hotels.
Punta Cavallata
Punta Cavallata, which means "Wave Point," precedes Lotu Beach and also marks the beginning of the Gulf of Saint-Florent on the western coastline.
