The 21-column covered market

The L’Isula covered market is a vast rectangular hall whose architecture resembles that of an ancient temple. Accessible via steps and a ramp, its cobbled floor supports three rows of columns which in turn support a roof structure covered by a gabled tiled roof. These features give it a strong architectural identity, which has been sketched by many amateur artists.

The covered market has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1993. It thus helps to preserve the urban environment of the town’s historic centre and has undergone restoration work to safeguard its structure. Recently, the columns were restored and have regained their former splendour.

Two centuries after it was built, L’Isula market has retained its original purpose. Every morning, it is filled with stalls run by producers from Balagne and the surrounding area. In spring, the market emerges from its winter slumber and regains its mouth-watering colours. It is in summer that its atmosphere is at its most vibrant, when fish and lobsters sit alongside charcuterie, cheeses, maquis honey and the usual fruit and vegetables. In winter, whilst the stalls are fewer and further between, Corsican clementines take centre stage.

Once the morning bustle has died down, the market hosts – sometimes in the afternoon or evening – concerts, shows or exhibitions by artists taking part in the ‘Les Nocturnes de l’Art’ event. It is also beneath its roof that the Lisulani gather after the procession of the Immaculate Conception on 8 December.