Learn How to Pronounce Ajaccio | YouPronounce.it
How to Pronounce Ajaccio
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)
Meaning and Context
Ajaccio, the vibrant capital city of the French island of Corsica, is a sun-drenched Mediterranean port steeped in history and natural beauty. Founded by the Genoese in 1492, the city is globally renowned as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, a fact that permeates its identity through landmarks like the Maison Bonaparte museum and numerous statues. Situated on the island's western coast along the Gulf of Ajaccio, the city offers a compelling blend of cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, from its historic old town with narrow streets and a Genoese citadel to its pristine beaches such as Plage de Capo di Feno. As the prefecture of the department of Corse-du-Sud, Ajaccio serves as the political and economic heart of Corsica, attracting visitors with its bustling marina, excellent Corsican cuisine, and proximity to the rugged Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its unique position offers an ideal base for exploring the island's diverse attractions, from mountain villages to coastal calanques.
Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings
The standard and correct spelling is Ajaccio. A common alternative spelling seen in older English texts is Ajaccio, which is simply a direct transliteration from the French and Italian. The most frequent typographical errors involve the double letters, resulting in misspellings like Ajaico (missing a 'c'), Ajacio (missing a 'c'), or Ajaccion (adding an 'n'). Another common mistake is the confusion with the similar-sounding Italian city of Anzio. In pronunciation, the double 'c' is soft, producing an "sh" sound in French (ah-ZHAH-syo), which can sometimes lead to phonetic misspellings by those unfamiliar with the orthography. It is also important to note the city's full official name in the Corsican language, Aiacciu, which is used locally and in Corsican-language contexts.
Example Sentences
No visit to Ajaccio is complete without a pilgrimage to the Maison Bonaparte, the ancestral home where Napoleon was born in 1769.
After exploring the historic citadel, we spent the afternoon relaxing on the golden sands of Plage de Saint-François, right in the heart of the city.
The Ajaccio market, brimming with local cheeses, cured meats, and clementines, offers an authentic taste of Corsican culture.
Many cruise ships dock in the deep-water port of Ajaccio, allowing tourists a day to discover its Genoese heritage and scenic coastline.
The airport, Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport, connects the island to mainland France and is a hub for seasonal tourism.
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