Oratory of Saint John the Baptist, Ajaccio

The Oratory of Saint John the Baptist, built in 1565, was originally the seat of the Brotherhood of Saint Jerome and Saint John the Baptist, which managed the hospital for the poor. This historic site holds deep connections to Ajaccio’s past, as several members of the Bonaparte family were baptized here. After the French Revolution, the oratory was repurposed as a ballroom and performance hall, but it was restored as a place of worship following the Concordat.

Architecturally, the oratory is a Mannerist-style building, characterized by a facade with flat pilasters, topped by a triangular pediment. A bell tower rises above the structure on its northern side, adding to its distinctive silhouette. Inside, the single nave is adorned with a vault painted in the 19th century, while fluted pilasters accentuate the side walls, giving the space a refined and elegant feel.

The oratory’s high altar is a striking focal point, featuring intricate stucco decoration. Above it stands a columned altarpiece, crowned by an interrupted pediment, showcasing the artistic craftsmanship of the period. Today, this restored religious site serves as a reminder of Ajaccio’s religious and historical heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s past.