The Island Of Elba And Its Curious History
The island of Elba is located in the province of Livorno, in the west of the country, it is of volcanic origin and has 225 km². Having made the “pertinent presentations” about the location of this beautiful island, we want to tell you something about its history and the legends that revolve around the largest island in the Tuscan archipelago. Take a tour of the island of Elba and be amazed by its landscapes!
Elba island: reefs, mountains and fields
Just 50 kilometers from the most beautiful Corsica, Elba is an island chosen by divers due to its changing coastline of reefs. It is also an ideal destination for nature lovers, especially for its rugged and mountainous ecosystems. The highest peak reaches 1,018 meters, it is Mount Capanne and from its top you can enjoy amazing panoramic views.
The wealth of flora and fauna in this area is incredible and together with the white sand coves, the beaches with crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains with winding routes make up a set that is worth visiting at least once in your life.
Elba Island main attractions
A ferry will take you to the island’s capital and from there… Let the adventure begin! The places that you cannot miss during your stay (no matter how many days you stay) are:
Portoferraio
It is the capital of the island and bears that name because iron was exported from its port in the 16th century. At that time the city was also fortified and we can still admire the walls and the typical architecture of the Renaissance. The old town, the narrow streets, one of the oldest lighthouses in the world in Forte Stella and the Forte Falcone at the top of the town are part of a typical route.
Villa dei Mulini
It was the residence of Napoleon in his exile after the occupation of Paris and the Treaty of Fontainebleau. A real golden cage, since here he lived surrounded by an army of servants. However, and although he remained very active trying to improve the conditions of the island, captivity was not to the liking of Napoleon, who escaped 10 months after reaching Elba.
In the villa you can still see period furniture and part of Napoleon’s library. You can also stroll through its beautiful gardens.
San martino
This was Napoleon’s “summer residence”, located 5 kilometers southwest of the capital. It is located between vineyards, forests and hills. During the excursion we advise you to also go to the Gallery built in the 19th century, current museum of temporary exhibitions.
Martian
It is the oldest town on the island, at 375 meters high, on the top of a hill. The views from here are unique and this town is more than rich historically and archaeologically speaking. Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum (with Roman and Etruscan objects), Vittorio Emmanuele square, the promenade and the cable car that takes you to Mount Capanne.
Capoliveri
Another of the towns on top of a hill that offers wonderful panoramic views. Its architecture is original and still preserves much of the medieval era. Stroll through the labyrinthine alleys, the stone houses, the arcades or “chiassi” where there are shops and restaurants and the wine-growing area.
The legends that give rise to the island of Elba
There are two stories that “seek” to explain the emergence of this island. The first legend assures that the archipelago was born when the Tyrrhenian Venus left the Tyrrhenian Sea and in the movement lost a pearl diadem. These balls that fell from the head of the goddess formed the seven islands: Elba, Capraia, Giglio, Pianosa, Montecristo, Gorgona and Giannutri.
The second legend says that Jason and the Argonauts were looking for the Golden Fleece and stopped in the area to make repairs to their ship (we assume after Venus had that mishap with her crown).
When you are enjoying the beautiful beaches of Elba (including Biodola, Procchio, Lacona, Marina dei Campo and Fetovaia)… remember these stories. And you will feel part of a beautiful legend!
