Designed by Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes, the accessible promenade clings to the rocky foundations of the Corsican city’s 14th-century citadel
Words by Francesca Perry
French architecture practice Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes has designed a public coastal walkway in the city of Bastia, on the Mediterranean island of Corsica. Located at the foot of Bastia’s 14th-century citadel, the new 450m-long promenade – named L’Aldilonda, meaning ‘above the sea’ in Corsican – is positioned five metres above sea level, following the contours of the rocky coastline.
Until now, this coastline beneath the citadel wall was only partially accessible. Rather than simply a connective route, the new walkway is designed as a destination in itself, with a snaking form that at times widens out and creates places to linger, and at one point cuts through the historic fortress, creating a tunnel.
The corten-steel railing of the promenade stands out against the rocky backdrop and blue sea, although the nature of weathered metal seems to complement the sea-battered coast it clings to. The regularly spaced railing bars enable light to pour on to the walkway in striking geometric shadows, while ensuring public safety.
The walkway itself is made with fair-faced concrete and accompanied by stainless-steel grating connecting it to the rocks, which helps reduce the force of the water on the structure. With ramped access, the promenade is fully accessible, including for bicycles and wheelchairs. LED lighting, integrated into the railings at intervals of 3m, illuminate the path for use at night.
The project was designed in collaboration with local architect Buzzo Spinelli, and Lyon-based landscape and urban planning studio In Situ.
Photography by David Boureau
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