5 things to see in Porto Azzurro

Overlooking an inlet of the narrow Gulf of Mola, Porto Azzurro is a characteristic fishing village and one of the best known places on the Island of Elba. It was founded in the 17th century under Spanish rule, of which it still preserves several testimonies. It was originally called Longone, then Porto Longone in 1873, and later, in 1947, it assumed its present name, which is more pleasant and more in keeping with the landscape. The small centre is characterised by pastel-coloured houses framing the harbour and small uphill streets, along which one is immediately drawn to majestic buildings.

What to see in Porto Azzurro? Here are 5 things not to be missed!

Piazza Matteotti

Among the things to see in Porto Azzurro, we cannot fail to mention the beautiful Piazza Matteotti, named in memory of the famous anti-fascist politician. At one time it was the Spanish parade ground, while today, spacious, sunny and overlooking the sea, it constitutes, especially in the summer months, the Island of Elba’s ‘social lounge’. Surrounded by cafés, restaurants and shops, it is a meeting point at all hours of the day, as well as a stage for events of all kinds (historical, gastronomic, cultural and entertainment). Embellished with valuable elements, it was built in a manner reminiscent of a fishing net to pay homage to the seafarers who for years sustained the town’s economy.

The Fort Longone

The most majestic and fascinating trace of Spanish rule is Fort Longone, also known as Fort San Giacomo, which stands on the top of a promontory east of the town. The fortified complex was erected in the early 17th century by Don Garcia de Toledo, echoing the structure of the fortress of Antwerp in its ramparts and star layout. The original sighting and defence functions were performed until the mid-19th century, when the military structure was gradually decommissioned. Although it cannot be visited inside, as it is the site of a penitentiary, it is nevertheless worth a visit to appreciate its imposing bulk and, at the same time, enjoy a wonderful view of the island’s east coast.

The Terranera Pond

Situated east of the town, the Terranera Pond is a small body of water of mining origin, formed in a 20th-century mining crater. Fed by a natural spring of fresh water rich in sulphur, it takes on a peculiar green colour, in stark contrast with the blue of the sea, from which it is separated only by a thin tongue of sand. The surrounding landscape is almost lunar and very evocative, as well as interesting from a geological point of view. Due to the presence of sulphurous water, bathing in the lake is strictly prohibited. It is accessed via an easy path from the left bank of Reale beach, along which one can still see signs of the excavation of the old mines.

The Small Mine

Just outside the centre of Porto Azzurro, on the road leading to Rio Marina, is the Small Mine, a reconstruction in reduced dimensions of a mine and the activity that took place inside it. The work, completely reconstructed with natural and authentic materials, was born from the imagination combined with the mining experience of Emilio Giacomelli, who has been working in the hard stone sector for over 40 years. The visit takes place on board an original miniature train; the route covers about 250 metres. The Piccola Miniera also includes the Etruscan Mining Museum, which aims to highlight the importance of the Etruscan presence on the Island of Elba. Of great cultural interest is the reproduction of four ovens in section with the various stages of hematite baking.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montserrat

Camouflaged among the lichen-covered rocks of a narrow valley a few kilometres from the centre of Porto Azzurro, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montserrat is a place full of charm and spirituality. It was built at the beginning of the 17th century by the Spanish governor Don Josè Pons, to whom the evocative landscape offered by the valley reminded him of Montserrat in Catalonia, where the statue of the black Madonna enthroned with Child was worshipped, and still is today. The sanctuary houses the image of the Black Madonna, to whom one of the most heartfelt celebrations in Elba is dedicated on 8 September. The sanctuary has strong references to Iberian Baroque architectural culture.

Photo gallery © (1) Visit Elba | (2) The Wom Travel | (3) Visit Tuscany – Sailko