Bastia, is a town and commune of northern Corsica, in France. It has an estimated population of just about 41,000 inhabitants. Bastia is also an main Corsican port and is renowned for its wines. Before the occupation of Corsica by the Genoese, Cardo was a big city. Around the city were little villages where the fishermen of Cardo lived. This little port was called Porto Cardo, which means "the port of Cardo." The Genoese felt the need for shelter from the sea storms and began to construct a bastiglia, also known as a stronghold or citadel. With time, Bastia became more successful and important than Cardo. Bastia was the capital of Corsica until 1791. Bastia is the principal port of the island and its principal commercial town.
When you go to Bastia make sure you visit these historical sites, Filitosa, National Museum of the Bonaparte Residence, Citadel, and Calvi Citadel. All have wonderful stories behind them.