Rue Notre-Dame

Rue Notre-Dame, the Strada Dritta of the Citadel

The Bastia audio-guided tour takes you along Rue Notre-Dame, a historic street of the Citadel. Since the construction of the upper town, it has been its main artery and links two of the most important monuments: Sainte-Marie cathedral and the Governors' Palace.

A street with a double Corsican and French name

In Corsican, the street is called Strada Dritta, the straight street. You will notice that here, the signs bear both the Corsican name and its French translation, a usage characteristic of Bastia. The street reveals fine typical houses with louvred shutters and colourful façades, which form the very identity of this old fortified town.

What there is to see

Walking along the Strada Dritta, you discover the intimate atmosphere of the Citadel, between old façades, colourful shutters and washing at the windows. The street leads from one monument to another and offers a fine summary of the Genoese history of Bastia. It is an ideal walk to grasp the soul of the upper town.

Practical information

Rue Notre-Dame, or Strada Dritta, crosses the Citadel of Bastia, between Sainte-Marie cathedral and the Governors' Palace. It can be walked freely at all hours; cobbled and sloping, it calls for good shoes. The houses, private, are contemplated from the street.

Why is the street called Strada Dritta?

Strada Dritta means the straight street in Corsican. It is the traditional name of Rue Notre-Dame, the main artery of the Citadel since its construction.

What does Rue Notre-Dame link?

It links two of the main monuments of the Citadel: Sainte-Marie cathedral and the Governors' Palace.