The Genoese towers: silent sentinels along the coast
They have stood for more than five hundred years. Round, massive, built from stone, gazing out over the sea. The Genoese towers are perhaps the most recognisable symbol of Corsica. Today, 67 still stand along the coastline, from Cap Corse to Bonifacio.
Why were they built?
At the beginning of the 16th century, Corsica was part of the Republic of Genoa. The coast was regularly raided by pirates from North Africa. At the request of the villagers, Genoa had dozens of watchtowers built along the entire coastline. The towers served a threefold purpose: scanning the horizon, signalling attacks and defending the coast.
At their peak, around 1730, Corsica counted some 120 towers. Through decay, wars and neglect, only 67 remain today. Not all the towers are actually Genoese — some were built by the Pisans (12th century) or by Paoli's independent government. But because of their similar appearance, they are all commonly referred to as "Genoese towers".
What do they look like?
Most towers are round, between 12 and 17 metres tall and 8 to 10 metres wide. The round shape was a deliberate choice: cannonballs bounced off more easily than from a flat wall. Inside, you'll find three floors and a cellar.
- Cellar: storage for food, ammunition and a rainwater cistern
- First floor: living quarters for the two to three tower guards
- Second floor: the watch room with loopholes and observation openings
- Terrace: lookout post with panoramic views, equipped with a fire pit for sending smoke signals
When an attack came, the guards lit a fire on the terrace. The next tower spotted the signal and did the same. In this way, the entire coastline could be warned in a matter of minutes. There were no stairs: the guards climbed from floor to floor using hatches and removable ladders.
Did you know The Pisan towers are older (12th century) and stand on mountain ridges rather than on the coast. They are square and served primarily as defence against overland attacks.
Which towers are worth visiting?
Many towers are freely accessible via marked hiking trails. Some recommendations:
- Torra di Campomoro (south) — one of the best-restored towers, with a small museum and stunning views over the bay
- Tour de Turghiu / Capo Rosso (west) — spectacularly set on a red granite cliff, reached via a beautiful walk
- Torra di Nonza (Cap Corse) — above the village of Nonza, with views over the black pebble beach
- Tour de la Parata (Ajaccio) — on the peninsula near Ajaccio, overlooking the Sanguinaires islands
- Tour de Fautea (east coast) — right on a lovely little beach, easily accessible
Some towers are still in good condition, others are ruins. But even a crumbling tower on a headland above the sea is worth the walk. The combination of history, nature and panoramic views makes every tower special.
Insider tip Plan your tower visit for late afternoon. The light is at its best then and it's much cooler than midday. Near many towers you can finish the day with a swim in a nearby bay.