The monument is colloquially referred to by locals as 'Le Casone' due to the historic 'Casa del Casone' estate that previously occupied the site.
It was inaugurated on the 119th anniversary of Napoleon’s death, May 5, 1938.
The granite used for the construction was sourced from local Corsican quarries.
The site features a stone map of the Napoleonic campaigns carved into the ground near the base of the staircase.
It was designed by the architect François Giacobbi and sculptor Gabriel Rispal.
The Monument commémoratif de Napoléon 1er, located at Place d'Austerlitz in Ajaccio, is a large granite monument dedicated to Napoleon Bonaparte. Built in 1938, the structure features a central pedestal topped with a statue of the Emperor, flanked by two side staircases and tiered levels. The site is known locally as the Casone. It commemorates Napoleon's early life in his birthplace of Ajaccio before his rise to power in France. The monument incorporates bronze eagles and imperial symbols, reflecting the architectural style of the period. It stands at the base of a rocky hillside, providing an elevated vantage point over the western sector of the city.
From the bottom of the main staircase looking directly up toward the statue to capture the scale of the monument against the sky.
Walk to the top level of the monument for an expansive view of the surrounding neighborhood and the bay.
Visit during the late afternoon to see the golden sunlight hit the granite facade, which helps highlight the carved details.
Bring comfortable walking shoes to navigate the stone stairs and the inclined surrounding park area.
Do not attempt to climb the monument statue itself or the decorative pillars, as the stone is slippery and the climb is prohibited.
