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Key figures

Origin and history

The house located rue Longue in Bonifacio is distinguished by its door dated from the beginning of the sixteenth century, whose chambranle was carved in Genoa. This architectural detail reveals artistic influences ligures, typical of the period when Corsica maintained close ties with the Republic of Genoa. The lintel, supported by two ground consoles, has a complex decor: a crowned chrism, a Christian symbol, is framed by vases where plant rinsels emerge, as well as two initials in Gothic capitals. The extremities of the lintel show two sprawling lion coats, enriched with lamprequins and surmounted by an angel-shaped crowned crown, illustrating the high social status of the original owners.

According to local tradition, this house would have welcomed Emperor Charles Quint during his stay in Bonifacio in 1541, although this information is more a legend than a verified historical source. The door, classified as Historic Monument by order of 12 May 1927, is the only protected element of the building. Its style reflects both Renaissance Genoese art and local specificities, testifying to cultural exchanges in the Mediterranean in the 16th century.

The location of the house, now identified under the approximate address 3 Rue des Deux Emperors, raises questions about the accuracy of historical archives. The Merimée base is located rather on Longue Street, perhaps reflecting changes in urban denomination over the centuries. The location note (6/10) suggests a minor geographical uncertainty, common for ancient monuments in narrow and winding streets like Bonifacio.

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