Encountering Chestnut in Corsica

In the summer of 2010 I received an extraordinary invitation to – with my family – visit a friend and family of long-standing during their annual summer sojourn to Corsica. At breakfast, the morning following our arrival, I was most surprised that the flower arrangements all contained chestnut flowers. In the conversation which followed I apparently impressed my hosts (pointing out the male and female flowers) and having proven I knew something about the chestnut, was thus embraced as worthy of seeing some of the great chestnut forests of Corsica. Expeditions were arranged.

Apparently the chestnut in Corsica has practically cult status – and my standing – as an expert on Chestnut was immediately secured. My poor children that the Corsicans actually cared about chestnut was hard to reconcile.

The following photos should give some impression of the extent to which the Corsicans appreciate the chestnut. The photos were taken over a several day period when travelling from Calcatoggio south to Ajjacio (birthplace of Napoleon) and then north to Evisa. In the mountains, chestnut is used to fatten the hogs and sheep and to make beer and bread. In fact – is there anything for which it is not used! In the markets you will find dozens of products made from chestnut. Jams to hams and flour to cakes and cookies, with beer and spirits in between. The market photos are from Ajjacio but I am sure, like the forests, this market is representative of those all over Corsica. I was thrilled to see how the chestnut leaves and flowers were celebrated in the markets by garnishing everything from preserved meats to cheese to cakes. I hope you enjoy!

Map of Corsica - Ajjacio to Evisa
[click for larger photo]