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Origin and history

The convent of Saint Francis of Istria, located in Petreto-Bicchisano in Corsica, was founded in 1602 by the notables Ercole and Federico of Istria. This Franciscan monastery, typical of 17th century religious architecture, was structured around a closed central courtyard, including convent buildings and a church today destroyed. His spatial organization reflected the needs of an active religious community, integrating spaces of life, prayer and formation.

In 1661, the convent was erected as a formation house, marking a period of expansion during which it was able to accommodate up to a dozen religious. This development reflects its growing importance in the region, both spiritually and educationally. Like many ecclesiastical goods, it became national property during the French Revolution, before being sold in 1828 to Luc d'Ornano for 1,020 francs, illustrating the political and social upheavals of the time.

The facades and roofs of the convent, as well as the hold of the destroyed church, were inscribed in the Historical Monuments by order of 23 June 1993. This protection recognizes the heritage value of the site, despite the disappearance of some original elements. Today, the convent remains an architectural and historical testimony of the Franciscan presence in Corsica, in a variable but documented state of conservation.

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