Escalier du Roy d'Aragon

Cut into the limestone cliffs below Bonifacio’s Haute Ville, the Escalier du Roy d’Aragon descends from the citadel toward the sea. Its steep steps lead to a narrow path beside the water, with wide views of the cliffs and coastline from above and below. The descent and climb back up take effort, but the route gives you a close look at the rock face and the scenery at the foot of the town. Go early for more room to take photographs.

A staircase cut into the cliff

The Escalier du Roy d’Aragon runs down the limestone face below Bonifacio’s upper town. Its steep steps connect the citadel with a path near the sea, where the cliff and water come into close view. The staircase is visible from the water as well as from the town above.

The name is linked to Alphonse V of Aragon, whose forces besieged Bonifacio in 1420. A local legend says his soldiers carved the steps in one night. Another account attributes the work to Franciscan monks, who needed access to a drinking-water source. The single-night story is a legend, not an established account of how the staircase was made.

The route down and back

Follow the signs through the upper town to reach the staircase. The steps are steep and uneven, and the route leads to a narrow walkway alongside the sea. Views open onto the cliffs and water as you descend; the return climb is part of the effort, so allow for both directions.

Some sections may be wet, and access can be restricted in places. Wear shoes suited to stairs, use the hardhat provided for safety, and follow any instructions about which parts are open. Early morning is a useful time to visit if you want more space along the route and for photographs.