The Genoese have made several attacks upon it during the late troubles, but were never able to carry it. The inhabitants are very deservedly proud of this. They shew, with particular triumph, a shell which the enemy threw into their village, to oblige them to surrender. They have placed it in a niche on the outside of their church, to serve as a memorial of their deliverance, and to inspire them with greater zeal and devotion when they go to divine worship.
From Tomino east to Bastia, is about 26 miles of a country much diversified with hills, and abounding in springs. On the coast are a number of poor fishing towns, and a little up the country, there are several villages or hamlets prettily situated.
Bastia has of a long time been reckoned the capital of Corsica. It was here that the Genoese held the seat of their sovereign power: and indeed Bastia is still the largest town in the island. It has a stately appearance from the sea, being built, on the declivity of a hill; though upon entering the town, one is a good deal disappointed; for the houses are in general ill built, and the streets narrow, and from the situation of the town, are necessarily very steep. There are however several pretty good buildings here. It hath a castle, which
