The city of Ajaccio is expecting a prestigious guest this Sunday, December 15: Pope Francis. For this first visit by a pope to the Isle of Beauty, nearly 100,000 people are expected. During this day, Francis will visit several symbolic places in the city.
► The Saint-Joseph chapel, the Pope’s first stop
The first stop on François’ route will be at the Saint-Joseph chapel at the entrance to the city, where he will board his popemobile to begin his journey.
#Ajaccio
ℹ️ Visit of Pope Francis: pedestrian walking areas on the official route.➕ informations : https://t.co/eW273WO003pic.twitter.com/Vl48DQkDBN
— Ville d’Ajaccio – City of Ajaccio (@VilledAjaccio) December 9, 2024
Built in 1837, this chapel is an important place of pilgrimage for Ajaccians. On Saint Joseph’s Day, March 19, the town’s carpenters, in charge of the small church, perpetuate the tradition. Once the service is over, canistrellis, emblematic Corsican biscuits, are distributed to the faithful.
► The San Ghivà baptistery, the first Paleo-Christian remains of the city
The Pope will then stop at the San Ghjuvià (Saint-Jean) baptistery for a blessing and a time of prayer around the first paleo-Christian remains of the city.
This is where the episcopal seat of Corsica was originally located, mentioned for the very first time in one of the letters of Pope Gregory the Great, in 601. Discovered in an exceptional state of conservation and classified as a historic monument. , the baptistery is composed of a large cruciform tank and a smaller cylindrical basin, which must have been “intended for washing the feet of catechumens”according to the National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (Inrap).
► The Palais des Congrès and the conference on popular piety
The popemobile will then travel to the Palais des Congrès. It is here that Francis must attend the closing of the conference on popular piety.
This imposing modern architectural structure, in the heart of downtown Ajaccio, opened its doors in 2003 and hosts numerous cultural events.
► Ajaccio town hall to sign the guest book
Leaving the conference, Pope Francis will make a short stop in front of the town hall. The city’s guest book should be brought to the popemobile for him to sign.
Built in 1836, the Ajaccio town hall is known for housing a “Napoleonic salon” where various paintings, statues and souvenirs relating to the epic and the imperial family, from the collections of Cardinal Fesch and Prince Jérôme, are kept. Napoleon.
► Statue of Madunnuccia, patroness of the city
The Pope will stop for a time of contemplation in front of the statue of Maddunnucia, Our Lady of Mercy.
In 1656, the Virgin of Mercy was designated patron saint of the city by the Council of Elders, to protect the Ajaccians from the pneumonic plague, which was then ravaging several regions of the Mediterranean. Since that time, every March 18, the most important procession on the island is dedicated to him.
Happy Madunnuccia Day everyone!
Today we celebrate our protector with fervor and gratitude. May Madunnuccia watch over each of us and bring us peace and health. Let’s share the moments of this beautiful day together! #madunuccia#fête#traditionpic.twitter.com/UWXcWx7TMk— Catholic Church of Corsica (@dioceseajaccio) March 18, 2024
► The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, jewel of Ajaccio
The Pope will then stop at the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Our Lady of the Assumption. With the Angelus prayer, a time of discussion is planned there with representatives of the local clergy, cardinals and bishops from all over France.
This cathedral is one of the jewels of Ajaccio. Napoleon was baptized in 1771 in this 16th century baroque building, typical of Counter-Reformation architecture.
According to RMC, Patrick Fiori, Jenifer and Alizée, singers of Corsican origin, were chosen to perform in front of the cathedral during the visit of Pope Francis.
After the cathedral, the Pope will return to the bishopric to have lunch and rest before celebrating mass.
✝️ FRENCH POPE IN CORSICA ✝️
— “Jesus passed by doing good” (AC 10:38)It’s a special moment that we are getting ready to experience, all together pic.twitter.com/xbfNIyNTqi
— Catholic Church of Corsica (@dioceseajaccio) November 23, 2024
► Le Casone, the city’s tourist hotspot
Leaving the bishopric, the popemobile will pass through the crowd of the fan zone at Place Miot, where 10,000 people are expected to follow the mass broadcast on two giant screens. The Pope will then cross the Place d’Austerlitz (also called U Casone) to the altar which will be installed under the statue of Napoleon where he will celebrate mass.
This monument, where the famous “Napoleon Cave” is located, makes this place a tourist hotspot in Ajaccio.