Fort Matra is a 14th century stronghold located in Aleria on the eastern coast of the Haute-Corse department of Corsica.
Fort Matra
Fort Matra was built by the Geonese at the highest point in the village to protect the passage to Corte from the sea.
As with many forts and castles, Fort Matra has had a chequered past. There have been a number of revolts and battles fought there leading to it being restored on a number of occasions.
Today, Fort Matra continues to play its part in history but in a slightly more relaxed and informative way. Firstly it is the location where you can buy tickets to visit the Aleria ancient Roman ruins and secondly it is now home to the museum Jerome Carcopino.
The museum is the regional museum for archeology and is named after Jerome Carcopino who excavated the site. Carcopino was a famous French historian and author who was an expert in Rome. His family were also of Corsican decent and was related to Napoleon Bonaparte
Inside the museum you’ll find a variety of artefacts including ceramics, dishes, vases, coins and other objects. Unlike other museums many of the artefacts are in superb condition, especially the most impressive article which is in the shape of a dogs head.
