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Whilst yesteryear the economy of “Porti-Vechju” was mainly based around production of salt, wood and cork, the city of salt has today become a very attractive seaside resort. The third biggest town in Corsica (with a population of 11,000) and an important economic and tourist centre, Porto-Vecchio boasts an exceptional environment and offers a wide range of leisure possibilities. The town is very dynamic, especially in the field of culture. The Corsican Film Library “Casa di Lume” and the communal cultural centre, both located at the Jean-Paul de Rocca Serra building, include two rooms with 350 and 120 places respectively. Throughout the year, they host not only shows and films but also conferences and seminars. In the summer, Porto-Vecchio lays on a rich and diverse programme of events: concerts at the Church of Saint-Jean the Baptist, performances at the Théâtre de Verdure (a former cork factory) and exhibitions at the Bastion de France fort, amongst others…
In 1539, the Bank of Saint-George, commissioned by the Republic of Genoa, chose the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio to install a fort. Built on huge pink porphyry rocks, the fortifications with their five strongholds are today the home to the old town and its many small shops. The marina with the commercial harbour, beneath the ramparts, is particularly lively during the high season. Located at the end of a 9-km long gulf, it receives 30,000 entries per year and possesses 380 berths. It is also the ideal starting point for sea cruises. Bars, ice cream parlours and restaurants have taken up residence there, making the heart of the gulf a pleasant and relaxing setting. The Pointe de la Chiappa cape, with its lighthouse and semaphore signalling station, overlooks the entrance to the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio from the south and offers panoramic views over the southern tip of the island. Toward the horizon, the Cerbicales Islands can be seen. As part of the Strait of Bonifacio marine park, it is a protected site. Boasting the appeal of a captivatingly beautiful coast, the area of Porto-Vecchio has also become one of the leading places for luxury tourism. To the south of the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio, the Palombaggia (Palumbaghja) beach and Bay of Santa-Giulia (Santa Ghjulia), resembling Polynesian lagoons, are emblematic of the natural beauty that pervades the southern tip of Corsica. A veritable paradise for water sports, these sites are Corsica’s most visited in summer.

• www.destination-sudcorse.com

To the site of Porto-Vecchio

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