Bonifacio
From Freepedia
- For other meanings, see Bonifacio (disambiguation).
Bonifacio (Bunifaziu in Corsican) is a town and commune near the southern tip of the island of Corsica, in the département of Corse-du-Sud, France. Population (1999): 2,660 (Bonifaciens).
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Geography
Bonifacio is located directly on the Mediterranean Sea, separated from Sardinia by the Strait of Bonifacio.
Sights
Bonifacio is split into two sections. The vieille ville (old town), or la Haute Ville (the Upper city), on the site of a 9th century citadel, is located on a peninsula overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Most of the inhabitants reside in the Haute ville, including the town's most famous inhabitant, Marie-José Nat. The harbor below, la marine which is at the end of a fjord-like inlet that provides a natural harbor, is a port for a large number of fishing and tourist boats.
The town's charm and proximity to idyllic beaches makes it a popular tourist destination in the summer, predominantly for residents of mainland France. Bonifacio is also a gateway to the small Isles Lavezzi (Lavezzi Islands), which are the southernmost part of France, and have been designated a marine preserve by the French government.
Transportation
The town is served by Figari airport (car or taxi required), and ferry service to Sardinia is available multiple times daily.
Miscellaneous
Bonifacio was the birthplace of Tommaso Maria Zigliara (1833-1893), Roman Catholic cardinal, theologian, and philosopher.
