The orii of the Extreme-south

At the heart of pastoralism culture, the first shepherds of the Island were itinerant nomads, moving at the same rhythm as herds. On the pathway of transhumance, they built, through the centuries, sheepfolds and rock shelters, named « orii » in corsican. Built on a standard model, these refuges are made under an imposing rock, whose aspect is shaped by the assault of erosion, or taonization (from the corsican word « taone » meaning « hole »). The elements - rain, snow, sea winds and sprays - dig the rock, giving birth to surprising structures with a cavity, sealed by a stone wall. These shelters were made for people and their animals, that would find a warm asylum when weather would be inclement.

In the Extreme South of Corsica, this small troglodyte houses were scattered on the territory, emerging from the Corsican maquis, among other impressing sites. On the county of Sotta, after only a few minutes walk, it is possible to discover a surprising mineral edifice hatted of a remarkable pointed cap : the Oriu di Canni. Picturing the rudeness of the shepherds’ lifestyle, this oriu is made of a unique room, whose height under its vault allows a person to stand. On the outside, it is possible to witness that this gigantic rock block has been polished with age, its curves being smooth and less abrasive. Walking around the monolith, the site offers a superb and plain view of the hamlet of Canni and the valley below. A little further west, on the flank of the mountain, there is another architectural singularity : the Oriu of Monaccia-d’Aullène. After a short hour on the heritage footpath, magnificently rehabilitated, the protected caves and their walls appear. This place of dilettante, with its flat stones, is perfect for a picnic, to take advantage of a panoramic view on the Mediterranean Sea.

Les éléments, tels que la pluie, la neige, ou encore les embruns creusent la roche, donnant naissance à d’étonnantes structures composées d’une cavité ; qui est scellée par un mur en pierres.

Text & Photos : Sébastien Leroy