Saint Joseph district

The Saint-Joseph district and the feast of San Ghjisè

The Bastia audio-guided tour lets you discover the Saint-Joseph district, an important place in the city, approached with respect. It is here that one of the most awaited festivals of Bastia is celebrated, the feast of Saint Joseph, in honour of one of the city's patron saints.

The patron saint of families and craftsmen

Saint Joseph is the patron saint of families and craftsmen, honoured each year on 19 March. On that day, the whole district is in celebration. A procession, called in Corsican the San Ghjisè, leads the statue of Saint Joseph to the cathedral, to the rhythm of the Corsican religious chants that pay him tribute. It is a strong moment in the spiritual and traditional life of Bastia.

What there is to see

Outside the festival, the Saint-Joseph district keeps its village atmosphere, with its lanes and its church. For those visiting Bastia around 19 March, the procession and the polyphonic chants offer a moving testimony of Corsican traditions. The district illustrates the deep attachment of the people of Bastia to their religious and cultural heritage.

Practical information

The Saint-Joseph district is in the centre of Bastia. Its streets can be walked freely at all hours. The feast of Saint Joseph takes place each year on 19 March, with a procession to the cathedral; the church, a place of worship, can be visited with respect for silence.

When does the feast of Saint Joseph take place?

The feast of Saint Joseph, or San Ghjisè in Corsican, is celebrated each year on 19 March, with a procession that leads the statue of the saint to the cathedral.

What is Saint Joseph the patron of?

Saint Joseph is one of the patron saints of Bastia, patron of families and craftsmen, honoured in the district that bears his name.