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Built by the Genoese in the 14th century, Matra fortress purpose was to defend Aleria, the surrounding areas and the coast. It was built on a hill, in a strategic position. Partially destroyed in 1729 by the Corsican people who had rebelled against the Genoese, it was later rebuilt.
Matra family gave its name to the castle. Today, in the fort there is the Archaeological Museum of Aleria, one of the most important museums of Corsica.
References:The Château Comtal (Count’s Castle) is a medieval castle within the Cité of Carcassonne, the largest city in Europe with its city walls still intact. The Château Comtal has a strong claim to be called a 'Cathar Castle'. When the Catholic Crusader army arrived in 1209 they first attacked Raymond-Roger Trencavel's castrum at Bèziers and then moved on to his main stronghold at Carcassonne.
The castle with rectangular shape is separated from the city by a deep ditch and defended by two barbicans. There are six towers curtain walls.
The castle was restored in 1853 by the architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. It was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1997.