The former historical capital of Corsica, Aléria has by turns been a Phocaean Colony, a Carthaginian Outpost and then a powerful Roman City before being destroyed by the Vandals and occupied by the Moors of Barbary. The remains uncovered provide a unique insight into the great Mediterranean civilisations. The Matra Fort, recently restored, was built by the Genoese at the end of the 15th century. A path from the fort leads to the centre of the ancient city: the Forum, the Temples, the houses and the stores have been uncovered after years of excavation.