An imposing and meticulous construction site. Led by the municipality and the SPL Ametarra – project owner -, the conversion works of the Miollis citadel, a former military site classified as a Historical Monument, started last January. The operations are scheduled until 2030, with each phase under constant archaeological and scientific supervision.
Over twelve to fifteen months (at a cost of 2.86 million euros excluding tax), the first particularly sensitive phase involves creating a new access from the Tino-Rossi port by piercing the rampart and creating a passage. In the area of the Saint-Matthieu redan, at the end of the high courtyard of the 15th-century building, the gradually emerging opening to the outside is already visible.
“Advancement is being done stone by stone”
“Since the beginning of the works, excavations have been carried out and lintels have been installed to reinforce the structure at this level, explains Quentin Baril, responsible for archaeological operations at the Hades investigative bureau. Currently, the former sally port (emergency exit) documented in 2023 has been reopened. It will be widened to 3.2 meters in width. The advancement is being done stone by stone, using an electric chisel.”
Around the site, pieces of the impressive granite blocks, methodically removed, accumulate in several dozen bags. These stones, securely assembled with mortar centuries ago, will be reused throughout the upcoming stages of the conversion project, which includes the restoration of all the ramparts and the rampart walkway.
“Documenting and improving the knowledge of the building”
“As the works involve transforming, even partially modifying historic buildings, as well as intervening in the subsoil, two archaeological diagnostic operations, prescribed by the Regional Service of Archaeology (SRA), took place in 2019 and 2021, recalls Laura Manca, an engineering study manager in charge of scientific and heritage management in Southern Corsica at the Drac (Regional Directorate of Cultural Affairs). Preventive excavations were then conducted. Currently, each excavation or masonry construction step is scientifically accompanied to precisely document human activities and improve the technical knowledge of the building.”
Simultaneously, the current archaeological study focuses on the Genoese fortress from the 15th and 16th centuries, encompassed and preserved within the buildings constituting the Miollis barracks.
“These investigations consist of removing, in selected areas, the coatings covering the masonry of the military building to examine the original construction methods and subsequent alterations, specify Quentin Baril and Laura Deye, administrative and communication manager for Hades. The objective of this operation is to complete the work started by the captain and archaeology enthusiast, Mr. Héritier-Marridaz, in the late 1980s. The latter uncovered the organization of the fortress, with two quadrangular towers, including an imposing keep, connected by powerful walls forming a rectangular ensemble with a central courtyard. The aim is also to raise awareness of this monument dating back to the origins of the city.”
Heritage Valuation and Mediation
The graphic documentation (surveys and photographs) is complemented by objects collected through manual excavation (metal, glass, ceramics, animal bones), as well as more innovative techniques, including photogrammetry and 3D scanning. All graphic data is consolidated in a Geographic Information System (GIS), organizing and classifying archaeological and historical information. This meticulous data preservation also relies on documentary research in the archives.
A scientific mission that aims to promote, in the future, the valuation and mediation of this unique heritage to the general public.
