Pronunciation: [bˈast͡ʃə] (IPA) 
Bastia is a French city located on the island of Corsica. The word is pronounced as /bæstiə/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The 'a' is short and pronounced as /æ/, while the 'i' is pronounced as /iə/. The 's' is silent, giving the 't' its strong /t/ sound. The use of the letter 'a' at the end of the word is common in French spelling for some cities and regions, such as Normandie and Provence.
Bastia is a proper noun that refers to a city and commune situated northeast of the French island of Corsica. It serves as the capital of the Haute-Corse department and is one of the major towns on the island. Bastia is renowned for its historical, cultural, and architectural significance.
The city of Bastia spans an area of approximately 19 square kilometers and is located along the eastern coast of Corsica. It is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Bastia has a population of around 43,000 inhabitants, making it the second-largest city on the island.
Bastia is an important port city, serving as a gateway for transportation to and from mainland France as well as other Mediterranean destinations. The city's economy is supported by various sectors, including commerce, tourism, and manufacturing.
The heritage and culture of Bastia are evident in its charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and iconic landmarks. Notable attractions include the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, the Citadel, and the Old Port. Bastia also hosts several annual festivals, such as the Fiera di l'Alivu (Olive Fair) and the Festiventu (Wind Festival), which celebrate local traditions and customs.
Overall, Bastia is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and a bustling coastal atmosphere.
The word "Bastia" is derived from the Italian word "bastiglia", which means "fortification" or "stronghold". It is believed to come from the Latin word "bastilia", which shares the same meaning. The name likely refers to the strategic location of the city, which was historically a fortified town.
