Monticello is a charming village with an eagle's nest feel. It's both a must-see for those discovering the Balagne region and a restful place for those who live here...
The history
The many archaeological digs that have been carried out in northern Corsica allow us to state with certainty that Monticello was already inhabited in Neolithic (prehistoric) times.
This was, of course, also the case in the Middle Ages, when the territory was first administered by a powerful local count (who even had his castle built there) and then occupied by Genoa, before it was unfortunately burnt down by the Barbaresques (pirates from Africa) in the 16th century.
To prevent further attacks, the villagers subsequently built defensive towers. A wise idea that proved highly effective. Also during this period, part of the commune was ceded for the construction of Île-Rousse.
The village
Although a popular tourist destination, Monticello has preserved its character, with mainly old buildings. The narrow streets, with vaulted passageways between the houses, cluster around the church of San Sebastianu. Numerous hiking trails offer the chance to escape for a few hours to the heights of the Balagne region. Unless you prefer the sea, only a few kilometers away...
What to see
- San Sebastianu parish church
- Chapel of Saint-François-Xavier (listed as a historical monument)
- Chapel of the San Carlo Borromée brotherhood
- Saleccia Botanical Park
- Ruins of the Saleccia tower
Don't miss
- The feast of San Roccu (Saint Roch), the village's patron saint, on August 16
