Calvi history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Calvi is inextricably linked to the era of the Republic of Genoa's dominance over Corsica. Although archaeological findings indicate the presence of people in this region as early as the Neolithic period and Roman rule, Calvi began to take shape as a fortified city in the second half of the 13th century. The official starting point is often considered to be 1268 (according to other sources — 1278), when the Genoese governor Giovaninello de Loreto laid the foundation stone of a powerful citadel on the rocky promontory.

Key Factors of Establishment

The transformation of a small settlement into a strategically important outpost was driven by several reasons:

• Geographical Location: The city is located on the northwestern tip of the island, making it the closest port to Genoa (only about 170 km away) and the French coast. The deep and protected bay was ideal for naval fleets.
• Political Loyalty: Calvi was historically a stronghold of loyalty to Genoa, often standing in opposition to the rest of the island. For this devotion, the city received the honorary motto "Civitas Calvi Semper Fidelis" ("The City of Calvi is Always Faithful"), which can still be seen above the citadel gates today.
• Military Necessity: The high rock overhanging the sea provided a natural foundation for an impregnable fortress, essential for protection against raids by pirates and the armies of rival states, particularly Aragon.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of early Calvi flourished due to its role as the "maritime gateway" for the rich agricultural region of Balagne. Olive oil, grapes, citrus fruits, and almonds were actively exported through the port, contributing to the formation of a wealthy merchant class.

The cultural environment of the city developed in close contact with Liguria, which was reflected in its architecture, dialect, and traditions. One of the most intriguing legends rooted in the city's past is the claim that Christopher Columbus was born here. Although most historians lean towards the Genoese version of the navigator's origin, the residents of Calvi have maintained this tradition for centuries, pointing to the ruins of the house where he was allegedly born.

Major Historical Milestones

• 1278 — Genoese governor Giovaninello de Loreto erects a fortified castle on the rock, marking the beginning of the construction of the famous Citadel.
• 1421 — The city withstands a heavy siege by the troops of King Alfonso V of Aragon, confirming its status as an impregnable fortress.
• 1453 — The administration of Calvi passes to the influential Genoese Bank of Saint George, which strengthens the economic development of the port.
• 1553–1555 — The garrison and residents heroically defend themselves against the combined Franco-Turkish fleet, reinforcing the reputation of the "always faithful" city.
• 1768 — Following the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, Genoa cedes Corsica to France, and the French period of administration begins in Calvi.
• 1794 — During the siege of the city by English troops, Captain Horatio Nelson receives a facial wound and loses his right eye.
• 1796 — French troops regain control of the city after a brief British occupation, permanently securing it as part of France.
• Late 19th Century — The draining of surrounding marshes contributes to the defeat of malaria and the beginning of Calvi's transformation into a resort.
• 1890 — The opening of a railway line connecting Calvi with the rest of the island boosts trade and passenger transport.
• 1943 — Calvi becomes one of the bridgeheads for the liberation of Corsica from Fascist occupation and an important supply base for the Allies.
• 1967 — The 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment of the Foreign Legion is stationed in the city fortress, where it remains based to this day.

Stages of Development and Transformation

The history of Calvi is a journey from a closed military outpost to a cosmopolitan resort open to the world. Several key stages can be identified that defined the modern appearance and economy of the city:

• Formation of the Two-Level City Structure (13th–15th Centuries)
  The construction of the powerful Citadel on the rock created a clear urban division that has survived to this day. The "Upper City" became the administrative and military centre with dense buildings, while at the foot, along the bay, the "Marina" (Lower City) began to form. This defined Calvi's architectural landscape as a combination of a stern fortress and a lively seaside promenade.
• Economic Prosperity under the Aegis of Genoa (15th–18th Centuries)
  Thanks to the status of "Semper Fidelis" (Always Faithful), Calvi enjoyed tax exemptions and trade privileges. The port became the main export hub for the Balagne region, known as the "Garden of Corsica". Flows of olive oil, citrus fruits, and grape produce passed through the city, which formed a rich merchant class and allowed the city to be adorned with majestic buildings, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
• Sanitary Revolution and Urbanisation of the Lower City (19th Century)
  For a long time, the city's development was held back by malarial marshes around the mouth of the Figarella River. Large-scale drainage works in the late 19th century were of colossal importance: they not only improved the climate but also freed up vast lands for the construction of new districts, hotels, and the famous embankment surrounded by a pine grove.
• Transport Integration (Late 19th – 20th Century)
  The launch of the narrow-gauge railway (the famous "Trinichellu"), connecting Calvi with L'Île-Rousse and Bastia, and later the construction of the Sainte-Catherine International Airport, brought the city out of isolation. This turned the local port into an accessible destination for mass tourism, linking it with mainland France and Europe.
• Deployment of the Foreign Legion (since 1967)
  The transfer of the 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment of the French Foreign Legion to Camp Raffalli became an important economic factor. The presence of a large military contingent and their families (about 1,000 people) ensures stable demand for services and goods in a city with a population of only 6,000 residents, smoothing out seasonal economic fluctuations.
• Cultural Rebranding and Festival Movement (Modern Era)
  In recent decades, Calvi has reimagined its image, focusing on event tourism. The organisation of major international events, such as the jazz festival and the digital arts festival "Calvi on the Rocks", has attracted a young and affluent audience, cementing the city's status as a fashionable cultural capital of Corsica.

Architectural Appearance: A Dialogue of Two Eras

The urban structure of Calvi clearly demonstrates its history: the city is distinctly divided into two parts — the stern upper Citadel and the lively Lower City (Marina). This contrast between the military power of the Genoese period and the welcoming architecture of the trading port forms the city's unique visual code.

The Genoese Era: Military Architecture and Renaissance (13th–16th Centuries)

The dominant feature of the city is the Citadel, rising on a granite promontory. It is a classic example of Mediterranean fortification architecture. Narrow cobbled streets, high stone walls, and massive bastions were designed to protect residents from invaders.

Inside the fortress walls, the architecture bears the imprint of restraint and functionality typical of military settlements, yet gems of the Renaissance era can be found here. A striking example is the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (Saint-Jean-Baptiste). Built in the shape of a Greek cross, it combines Renaissance proportions with later interior decoration.

Baroque and Classicism: Flourishing of the Lower City (18th–19th Centuries)

As the threat of pirate raids diminished, life moved towards the sea. In the Lower City, the architecture becomes lighter and more ornate. A landmark building of this period is the Church of Sainte-Marie-Majeure. Its construction was completed in the late 18th century; the building stands out with its Baroque dome and bright facade in pastel tones, contrasting sharply with the grey granite of the Citadel.

Balance of Styles and Eras

The architectural fabric of Calvi is woven from several key directions, each corresponding to a specific stage of the city's development:

• Military Defensive Architecture (13th–16th Centuries):
  • Characteristic features: Massive inclined walls, bastions, lack of decoration, narrow embrasures.
  • Examples: Walls of the Citadel, Salt Tower (Tour du Sel) — a former watchtower that also served as a salt warehouse.
• Renaissance and Mannerism (15th–16th Centuries):
  • Characteristic features: Symmetry, domes, use of orders, but in a restrained "island" execution.
  • Examples: Layout of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Palace of the Governors (Caserne Sampiero).
• Baroque (17th–18th Centuries):
  • Characteristic features: Lavish interior decoration of temples, use of coloured plaster, complex dome shapes.
  • Examples: Interiors of the cathedral in the Citadel, architecture of the Church of Sainte-Marie-Majeure.
• Mediterranean Resort Style (19th–20th Centuries):
  • Characteristic features: Open terraces, promenades, large windows, use of arches and light tones.
  • Examples: Development of the Landry Embankment (Quai Landry), where former fishermen's houses have been transformed into elegant cafes and hotels.

Distinguished Figures of Calvi

The history of the city is intertwined with the destinies of great commanders, navigators, and cultural figures. Here are the key figures who have left their mark on the chronicles of Calvi:

• Giovaninello de Loreto (13th Century) — Genoese Governor and Founder.
  It was this nobleman who, in 1268 (or 1278 according to other sources), assessed the unique strategic position of the rock and laid the first stone of the Citadel. His decision turned a small settlement into an impregnable outpost, defining the military character of the city for centuries.
• Christopher Columbus (1451–1506) — Great Navigator (according to local tradition).
  Although official science considers him Genoese, the residents of Calvi have preserved a legend for centuries that the discoverer of the Americas was born right here, on Rue Carrughju, when the city belonged to Genoa. The ruins of the alleged "Columbus House" in the Citadel are a popular attraction today.
• Horatio Nelson (1758–1805) — British Admiral.
  The fate of the legendary naval commander is forever linked to Calvi. In 1794, during the siege of the city by English troops, Captain Nelson commanded an artillery battery. It was here that an enemy shell, striking the parapet, sprayed him with sand and stones, resulting in the future hero of Trafalgar losing his right eye.
• Napoleon Bonaparte (1769–1821) — Emperor of France.
  In May 1793, a young Napoleon, fleeing persecution by supporters of the Corsican leader Pasquale Paoli, found refuge within the walls of Calvi. He lived here for several days before departing for France, which became a turning point in his rise to power.
• Laurent Giubega (18th Century) — Godfather of Napoleon and Influential Citizen.
  A representative of one of the city's most noble families. It was in his house in the Upper City that the fugitive Bonaparte hid. The Giubega family played a key role in maintaining ties between Corsica and mainland France.
• Tao Kerefoff (1903–1980) — Founder of "Chez Tao" cabaret and cultural figure.
  A Russian officer-emigrant who settled in Calvi after the revolution. In 1935, he opened the "Chez Tao" evening venue in the former Bishop's Palace in the Citadel. The establishment became iconic, attracting world stars and bohemians, and cemented the city's status as a centre of social life and musical festivals.