<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n Welcome to Elba, the third\u2011largest Italian island after Sicily and Sardinia. With an area of about 224 km\u00b2<\/strong>, Elba offers an astonishing variety of landscapes: golden beaches, pebble coves, Renaissance fortresses, fishing villages and trails through Mediterranean scrub . The island measures roughly 27 km east\u2013west and 18 km north\u2013south and lies only 10 km from the mainland, so it can easily be explored in just a few days . Its mixture of seaside tourism, food traditions, mining history and rich natural heritage have earned Elba a place within the Tuscan Archipelago National Park .<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis guide, written by the team at Hotel Giardino in Lacona<\/strong>, takes you on a thorough discovery of the island and our hotel. Throughout the following sections you will find detailed descriptions, frequently asked questions, summary tables and travel advice . As an accommodation provider we only mention our own hotel, while all recommendations for restaurants, museums, beaches and towns are given to help you explore the territory.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhy choose Hotel Giardino?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\nAn oasis of tranquillity in the pine forest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Hotel Giardino is a family\u2011run hotel facing the centre of the Gulf of Lacona. It is immersed in a 30 000 m\u00b2<\/strong> pine park, part of a large forest that provides shade and the scent of resin and offers the chance to relax among ancient trees . This privileged location creates an oasis of peace while remaining less than 100 m<\/strong> from the sandy Lacona beach<\/strong> . A short five\u2011minute path leads directly from the hotel to the sea, leaving your car in the numbered private car park included for every room .<\/p>\n\n\n\nFamily philosophy and the comfort of the rooms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Managed by the same family for generations, Hotel Giardino welcomes its guests with a warm, informal atmosphere where Tuscan hospitality blends with respect for the environment . The rooms are spread over three separate units within the park and provide simple yet functional accommodation . Each room is equipped with air\u2011conditioning<\/strong>, flat\u2011screen TV, a private bathroom with shower and hairdryer and a safe . Many rooms have an independent entrance with direct access to the garden, others have a balcony or private patio; a few include a small exclusive garden . Guests praise the care taken with daily cleaning and the recently refurbished bathrooms, which are spacious and comfortable . Air conditioning ensures a restful sleep even on the hottest days, and free Wi\u2011Fi<\/strong> is available in rooms and common areas .<\/p>\n\n\n\nServices and common areas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n The hotel offers a range of services designed for the relaxation of the whole family:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nFree Wi\u2011Fi<\/strong> in rooms and common areas .<\/li>\n\n\n\nNumbered private parking<\/strong> inside the park .<\/li>\n\n\n\nRestaurant<\/strong> serving simple but tasty dishes of Tuscan tradition; buffet breakfast enriched with local specialities introduces guests to Elban flavours .<\/li>\n\n\n\nBarbecue area<\/strong> for outdoor dinners .<\/li>\n\n\n\nHotel bar<\/strong> for aperitifs or coffee .<\/li>\n\n\n\nPlay areas<\/strong>, including a small playground, table football and table tennis .<\/li>\n\n\n\nBike rental and sports equipment<\/strong>; the hotel caters to sport lovers by offering bicycle rental and possibilities for golf, diving, snorkelling and ping\u2011pong .<\/li>\n\n\n\nPet\u2011friendly services<\/strong>; four\u2011legged friends are welcome \u2013 please enquire about the type of room and availability .<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nOne of the hotel\u2019s strengths is its staff: guests constantly appreciate the kindness and friendliness of the team, which creates a family\u2011like atmosphere and is available for advice and bookings .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A strategic location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n The hotel is located on the south coast<\/strong> of Elba in the municipality of Capoliveri, between Marina di Campo and Portoferraio . This central position allows you to reach the island\u2019s main towns and most beautiful beaches in a short time . The area of Lacona is peaceful, surrounded by hills and pine forests yet close to services . In just fifteen minutes by car you can visit other spectacular beaches and places of interest .<\/p>\n\n\n\nLacona beach, one of the island\u2019s largest, is known for its golden sand and crystal\u2011clear water . Behind it lies a unique habitat: coastal dunes covered with sea lily<\/strong> (Pancratium maritimum) and yellow poppy \u2013 rare ecosystems on Elba . The beach is accessible thanks to bathing establishments, bars, restaurants and sailing schools . From the hotel you can also walk to the small cove of Laconella<\/strong> and to the Capo Stella<\/strong> headland with stunning views over the Gulfs of Lacona and Stella .<\/p>\n\n\n\nAgreements and ferries<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Elba is easily reached by ferries from the port of Piombino to Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo. Thanks to our agreements we can offer discounted ferry fares and special benefits reserved for our guests; contact us for a personalised quote .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Frequently Asked Questions about your stay<\/h2>\n\n\n\n What are the check\u2011in and check\u2011out times?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nCheck\u2011in is available from 14:00. On departure day, please vacate the room by 10:00 to allow cleaning and sanitising .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Does the hotel provide parking?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nYes. Each room has a numbered parking space inside the park. The car park is free and allows you to leave your car safely while you enjoy the beach or explore the island .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are pets accepted?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nWe are a pet\u2011friendly property and gladly welcome pets; please inform us at the time of booking as particular conditions may apply depending on the type of room and availability .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is there a swimming pool?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nNo; there is no swimming pool, but the sea is just a short walk away and Lacona beach offers clear and safe waters even for small children .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do the rooms have air conditioning and Wi\u2011Fi?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nYes. All rooms are air\u2011conditioned and have free Wi\u2011Fi. The connection is free in communal areas and rooms, and the hotel provides charging points and computer stations for guests .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What services are included in the stay?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nIn addition to the overnight stay, the rate includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuffet breakfast with local products ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n Parking and access to the barbecue area ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n Wi\u2011Fi and use of the play areas (playground, table tennis, table football) ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n Daily cleaning service ;<\/li>\n\n\n\n Assistance with booking ferries at discounted rates .<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nOther services available for a supplement include lunch and dinner at the restaurant, bicycle rental, boat excursions and wine tastings .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Does the hotel have a restaurant?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nYes. Our in\u2011house restaurant offers dishes of Elban and Tuscan tradition, focusing on local ingredients. Guests appreciate the excellent quality and variety of our cuisine, which includes fresh fish, meat, vegetables from our garden and homemade desserts . An \u00e0 la carte menu is available. For quick lunches or aperitifs you can visit the bar .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are there facilities for children?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nWe have a equipped playground, table football and table tennis for our younger guests . On request we can provide high chairs, cots and bottle warmers. The tranquil environment and proximity to the beach make the hotel ideal for families .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What sports activities can I practise in the area?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThanks to our central location, the hotel is a perfect starting point for numerous sports activities. We offer bicycle rental and are close to trails for trekking and mountain biking. Nearby sports include golf, scuba diving, snorkelling and ping\u2011pong . The hotel park provides shaded areas for yoga and outdoor activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can I organise excursions or guided tours from the hotel?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nOur staff is available to suggest customised itineraries and organise boat trips, museum visits and hiking routes . We collaborate with local guides and navigation companies to help you discover the island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discovering Elba starting from Lacona<\/h2>\n\n\n\n Elba surprises with its landscape variety: within a few kilometres you can pass from granite cliffs to long sandy beaches, from fishing villages to vineyards on the hills . The following sections propose an itinerary that starts from Lacona and touches the most characteristic centres of the island, enriched with frequently asked questions and summary tables .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Capoliveri \u2013 a medieval village on Monte Calamita<\/h3>\n\n\n\n The town and its history.<\/strong> Capoliveri rises 167 m above sea level on the ridge of Monte Calamita . Its origins date back to Roman times, when it was known as Caput Liberum<\/em> and associated with the cult of Bacchus. Today it is one of the island\u2019s most fascinating centres: a medieval village of narrow vaulted alleys (chiassi<\/em>), craft workshops and welcoming bars . Walking through the centre you encounter the remains of the Church of San Michele<\/strong>, where Pope Gregory XI celebrated Mass in 1376, and the Alfeo Ricci Museum of Elban Minerals<\/strong>, which displays rare gems such as the prase quartz .<\/p>\n\n\n\nDream beaches.<\/strong> Capoliveri is renowned for its numerous beaches. Entirely sandy beaches include Barabarca, Calanova, Felciaio, Ferrato, Lacona, Lido, Morcone, Naregno, Norsi, Pareti, Straccoligno and Zuccale . Other beaches, such as Madonna delle Grazie, Margidore and Remaiolo, mix sand and pebbles . A table later in this guide summarises the key features of these bays.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCulture and nature.<\/strong> Nearby you can visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie<\/strong> and the Spanish Forte Focardo<\/strong>, built in the 17th century . For lovers of legends we recommend an excursion on Monte Calamita<\/strong> (413 m); the peninsula is rich in magnetite and popular folklore tells that sailors\u2019 compasses malfunctioned near Punta Calamita . Every October the Grape Festival<\/strong> (Festa dell\u2019Uva) takes place, while in July the Festival of the Innamorata<\/strong> celebrates an ancient love legend with a historical parade and competitions between the town\u2019s districts . Mountain bikers can take part in the Capoliveri Legend Cup<\/strong>, a race across the scenic trails of Monte Calamita .<\/p>\n\n\n\nPortoferraio \u2013 the island\u2019s capital<\/h3>\n\n\n\n History and fortifications.<\/strong> Portoferraio lies on the north\u2011eastern coast and is the capital and main port of Elba. Its origins go back to ancient times: Ligurians, Etruscans and Greeks settled here before the Romans, who named it Fabricia<\/em> . In 1548 Cosimo I de\u2019 Medici transformed the village into the fortress of Cosmopoli<\/strong>, building a defensive system composed of the Falcone<\/strong>, Stella<\/strong> and Linguella<\/strong> forts linked by powerful walls that still protect the city .<\/p>\n\n\n\nNapoleon and the museums.<\/strong> Portoferraio is also associated with Napoleon Bonaparte<\/strong>, who lived here in exile from 4 May 1814 to 26 February 1815. His residences \u2013 Palazzina dei Mulini<\/strong> in town and Villa San Martino<\/strong> in the countryside \u2013 can be visited . Don\u2019t miss the Foresian Art Gallery<\/strong>, which houses a collection of artworks donated by Dr. Mario Foresi, and the Archaeological Museum at Linguella<\/strong>, displaying artefacts from the late 8th century BC to the 5th century AD . Nearby are the remains of the Roman Villa of Linguella<\/strong> and, across the bay, the Roman Villa delle Grotte<\/strong> .<\/p>\n\n\n\nPorto Azzurro \u2013 fishermen and Spanish history<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Located in the centre of the Gulf of Mola, Porto Azzurro is a charming fishing village whose current name dates from 1947 when the original \u201cPorto Longone\u201d was replaced . Its sheltered position has made it a safe harbour for ferries and tourist boats . The symbol of the village is the San Giacomo Fortress<\/strong> (also known as Fort Longone<\/strong>), built in 1603 with a star\u2011shaped plan; it currently houses a prison but some sections are open to visitors . The village spreads at the foot of the fortress with lively Piazza Matteotti lined with shops and restaurants . Wandering through the lanes you encounter the Madonna del Carmine Church<\/strong> and the Sacred Heart Chapel<\/strong> from the 18th century . Nearby attractions include the Piccola Miniera<\/strong>, a reconstructed mine visited by little train, and the Sanctuary of Madonna del Monserrato<\/strong> . Local beaches include Barbarossa<\/strong>, Reale<\/strong> and Rossa<\/strong> with sand, Terranera<\/strong> with pebbles, and Pianotta<\/strong> where sand alternates with rocks .<\/p>\n\n\n\nCampo nell\u2019Elba \u2013 between sea and ancient villages<\/h3>\n\n\n\n The municipality of Campo nell\u2019Elba occupies the island\u2019s southern and flattest part, stretching from the Gulf of Lacona to Pomonte . Here, within a few kilometres, you can alternate the lively coast \u2013 with localities such as Marina di Campo<\/strong> \u2013 with the tranquillity of the hillside villages San Piero<\/strong> and Sant\u2019Ilario<\/strong> . This area also includes the Island of Pianosa<\/strong> .<\/p>\n\n\n\nMarina di Campo, once a fishing village, is known today for its vast sandy bay, the longest beach on the island . On the west point stands a cylindrical Pisan tower<\/strong> 25 m high which is now a lighthouse . The beach is appreciated for its golden sand, gentle seabed and shady pine forest , making it ideal for families. Nearby you can visit the sandy beaches of Fetovaia<\/strong> and Galenzana<\/strong>, the pebbly coves of Colle Palombaia<\/strong> and Fonza<\/strong>, and the mixed beaches of Cavoli<\/strong> and Seccheto<\/strong>, where sand, rocks and pebbles alternate . Climbing towards the villages you reach Sant\u2019Ilario<\/strong> and San Piero<\/strong>, characterised by Romanesque churches such as the Pieve di San Giovanni<\/strong> and ancient towers; along the road you find the San Giovanni Tower<\/strong> and the Butterfly Sanctuary<\/strong> .<\/p>\n\n\n\nMarciana \u2013 the island\u2019s oldest village<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Marciana is a medieval hill village on the slopes of Monte Capanne on the island\u2019s western side . Founded in 35 BC<\/strong>, it is one of the oldest settlements in the archipelago . During the Appiani rule (14th\u201316th centuries) it flourished; the Pisan Fortress<\/strong> with its four towers and the civic buildings that housed the mint and foundry are testimony . From the fortress you enjoy panoramic views of Monte Capanne (1019 m) and the coast . Notable churches include the Romanesque Pieve of San Lorenzo<\/strong>, destroyed by the Turks in 1554, and the Church of San Cerbone<\/strong>, built in honour of the saint who sheltered here in the 6th century . The Civic Archaeological Museum<\/strong> in the Palazzo del Pretorio conserves finds from prehistory to the Villanovan culture .<\/p>\n\n\n\nMarciana Marina \u2013 the \u201clittle Marseilles\u201d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Separated from Marciana only in 1884, Marciana Marina is the smallest municipality on the island . The village develops along a narrow coastal strip enclosing a bay; behind it rise Monte Giove and Monte Perone, creating a scenic backdrop . In the past Marciana Marina was an important commercial port, earning the nickname \u201cLittle Marseilles\u201d . Today the ancient harbour is popular with sailors. Highlights include the 16th\u2011century Appiani Tower<\/strong>, the Church of Santa Chiara<\/strong>, and elegant 19th\u2011century villas along the promenade such as Villa Anselmi<\/strong>, Villa Leonardi<\/strong> and Palazzo Fossi<\/strong> . The picturesque Cotone<\/strong> quarter, the original settlement, still preserves the Etruscan imprint in its name .<\/p>\n\n\n\nRio \u2013 mines and castles between hills and sea<\/h3>\n\n\n\n The young municipality of Rio<\/strong>, created in 2018 from the union of Rio Marina<\/strong> and Rio nell\u2019Elba<\/strong>, encompasses hills scented with Mediterranean scrub and the crystal waters of the eastern coast . The area is famous for its long tradition of iron mining<\/strong>, begun by the Etruscans and continued to modern times; the red\u2011coloured hills testify to the ancient mines . To learn more about mining history you can visit the Archaeological Museum of the Mining District<\/strong> in Rio nell\u2019Elba and the Minerals and Mining Art Museum<\/strong> in Rio Marina . The latter exhibits minerals and faithful reconstructions of mining environments . Beyond industrial heritage, the municipality offers monuments such as the Church of San Rocco<\/strong>, an oratory from 1570, and the Port Tower<\/strong>, a watchtower erected in 1534 . Near the historic centre of Rio nell\u2019Elba you find the 16th\u2011century public washhouses fed by the Canali spring . A recommended hike leads to the Castle of Volterraio<\/strong>, an 11th\u2011century Pisan fort overlooking the bay of Portoferraio .<\/p>\n\n\n\nBeaches and coves not to miss<\/h2>\n\n\n\n Beaches are among the main attractions of Elba. In Capoliveri and elsewhere you will find sandy strands, hidden coves and wild coastline. The table below summarises the key characteristics of the most notable beaches, all reachable by car or scooter from Hotel Giardino .<\/p>\n\n\n\nBeach (Municipality)<\/th> Features & services<\/th> Natural notes<\/th><\/tr><\/thead> Lacona & Laconella (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Very fine sand; services: parking, bathing establishment, bar, restaurants, boat rental, sailing, scuba and windsurf schools<\/td> Preserve the island\u2019s last dunes with yellow poppy and sea lily<\/td><\/tr> Barabarca (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Rocks and sand; parking<\/td> Surrounded by isolated vegetation<\/td><\/tr> Cala dell\u2019Innamorata (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Pebbles and sand; services: parking, bathing establishment, boat rental, scuba and windsurf school<\/td> 300 m of sand, clear water; access to the Gemini Islands with rich marine fauna<\/td><\/tr> Felciaio (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Rocks and sand; parking<\/td> Secluded cove with sand and gravel<\/td><\/tr> Lido di Capoliveri (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Sand; services: parking, bathing establishment, boat rental, sailing, windsurf and scuba schools<\/td> Wide, well\u2011organised beach even in high season<\/td><\/tr> Madonna delle Grazie (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Pebbles and sand; services: parking, bar<\/td> Small beach with inlets and rocks<\/td><\/tr> Margidore (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Pebbles and sand; services: parking, bathing establishment, boat rental, scuba, windsurf school, mooring pontoon<\/td> Dark sand mixed with polished pebbles; quiet location<\/td><\/tr> Morcone (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Sand; services: parking, bathing establishment, boat rental, windsurf, scuba and sailing schools<\/td> Lush bay ideal for diving<\/td><\/tr> Naregno (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Sand; services: parking, bathing establishment, boat rental, windsurf and sailing schools, mooring pier<\/td> 500\u2011m beach dominated by Forte Focardo with views over the Bay of Mola and Porto Azzurro<\/td><\/tr> Norsi (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Pebbles and sand; services: parking, bar<\/td> Famous for its black sand and transparent waters<\/td><\/tr> Pareti (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Rocks, sand and pebbles; services: parking, bathing establishment, scuba and sailing school<\/td> View over Capo Stella; famous for the dives of freediver Jacques Mayol<\/td><\/tr> Straccoligno (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Sand; services: parking, bathing establishment, boat rental<\/td> Beach surrounded by Mediterranean scrub between Capo Perla and Liscolino<\/td><\/tr> Zuccale (Capoliveri)<\/strong><\/td>Rocks and sand; parking<\/td> Cove surrounded by lush vegetation<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nExperiences in nature<\/h2>\n\n\n\n Elba is not just about the sea: the inland and hills offer hiking routes and breathtaking panoramas. Here are some suggestions to try during your stay .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Excursion to Capo Stella<\/h3>\n\n\n\n The Capo Stella<\/strong> promontory separates the Gulfs of Lacona and Stella. A scenic loop trail of about 6.6 km<\/strong> (184 m elevation gain) lets you circle the peninsula in roughly two hours . The walk crosses Mediterranean scrub and offers numerous viewpoints: the highest point, Monte Capo Stella<\/strong>, reaches 141 m, while the lowest is 5 m above sea level . The trail is easy and can be walked year\u2011round; wear hiking shoes and take care on wet ground . From Hotel Giardino you can reach the trailhead on foot in minutes .<\/p>\n\n\n\nAscent of Monte Capanne<\/h3>\n\n\n\n At 1 019 m, Monte Capanne<\/strong> is the highest peak in the Tuscan Archipelago and offers a 360\u2011degree view of Elba and neighbouring islands . The easiest way to reach the summit is from Marciana, where a yellow cable car<\/strong> takes you close to the top; alternatively you can hike the CAI 101 trail<\/strong> through chestnut woods and granite outcrops . From the summit the panorama stretches from Pianosa to Corsica . The visit can be combined with the historical tour of Marciana and the archaeological museum .<\/p>\n\n\n\nTrekking and biking on Monte Calamita<\/h3>\n\n\n\n The Monte Calamita<\/strong> promontory offers panoramic trails and ancient mines. The magnetite\u2011rich ground has inspired legends about shipwrecks and wayward compasses . Today the paths are popular with walkers and cyclists; the Capoliveri Bike Park<\/strong> offers routes of varying difficulty, while guided visits reveal abandoned mines and the museum . During the Capoliveri Legend Cup<\/strong> the best bikers race along these trails .<\/p>\n\n\n\nTrip to Pianosa and other islands in the park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n From the port of Marina di Campo<\/strong> there are daily excursions to Pianosa<\/strong>, a small gem with prison history and unspoilt beaches . Day trips also visit other islands of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park \u2013 Capraia<\/strong>, Giglio<\/strong> and Montecristo<\/strong> \u2013 allowing you to appreciate protected marine environments and snorkel in crystal waters .<\/p>\n\n\n\nArt, history and museums<\/h2>\n\n\n\n Elba\u2019s cultural richness is demonstrated by museums, fortresses and archaeological sites spanning from the Neolithic to the modern era .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Medicean fortifications of Portoferraio<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Portoferraio\u2019s defensive system includes three forts \u2013 Falcone<\/strong>, Stella<\/strong> and Linguella<\/strong> \u2013 connected by walls and walkways built from 1548 . Designed by architects Bellucci, Camerini and Buontalenti on the orders of Cosimo I de\u2019 Medici, the impressive complex responded to the need to defend the island from sea attacks . From Forte Falcone<\/strong> there is a wonderful view of the Piombino channel , and the fortress hosts exhibitions and temporary displays .<\/p>\n\n\n\nNapoleonic villas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n The two residences of Napoleon Bonaparte<\/strong> on Elba are essential to understand his period of exile. Palazzina dei Mulini<\/strong>, on the headland at Portoferraio, was his main residence and preserves period furnishings, memorabilia and terraced gardens. Villa San Martino<\/strong>, set in the countryside a few kilometres away, served as his summer home; both villas are open to the public and host exhibitions dedicated to Napoleon .<\/p>\n\n\n\nForte Focardo and Spanish fortresses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n On the headland closing the Bay of Mola stands Forte Focardo<\/strong>, built by the Spanish in the 17th century . Its strategic position allowed control of two stretches of sea and protection of nearby Porto Azzurro. Not far away is the San Giacomo Fortress<\/strong> (also known as Fort Longone<\/strong>), built in 1603 with a star\u2011shaped plan . Although today it houses a prison, part of the fortress can be visited with guided tours .<\/p>\n\n\n\nChurches and sanctuaries<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Among the most significant religious sites are the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie<\/strong>, which houses Marcello Venusti\u2019s painting Madonna del Silenzio<\/em> ; the Madonna della Neve Church<\/strong> in Lacona, built in the 16th century by monks from the Abbey of Vallombrosa ; the San Lorenzo Church<\/strong> and San Cerbone Church<\/strong> at Marciana ; the Santa Chiara Church<\/strong> at Marciana Marina ; and San Rocco Church<\/strong> at Rio Marina .<\/p>\n\n\n\nMining and archaeological museums<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Elba\u2019s mining importance is testified by several museums. In Rio nell\u2019Elba<\/strong> the Archaeological Museum of the Mining District<\/strong> displays finds and minerals illustrating the evolution of iron extraction from Etruscan times to the present . In Rio Marina<\/strong> the Minerals and Mining Art Museum<\/strong> exhibits Elban minerals and reconstructions of mining tunnels . In Marciana<\/strong> the Civic Archaeological Museum<\/strong> preserves prehistoric, Etruscan and Roman artefacts and materials from shipwrecks .<\/p>\n\n\n\nMaritime museums and maritime traditions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n In Capoliveri the Sea Museum<\/strong> tells the story of the Polluce<\/strong> shipwreck through recovered objects \u2013 cabin sets, jewellery, coins and furnishings \u2013 and is complemented by the Alfeo Ricci Mineral Museum<\/strong> displaying beautiful gems . At Marciana Marina, maritime tradition is tied to tuna fishing: the village houses one of the last active tuna traps and still remembers the historic mattanza<\/em> (tuna massacre) .<\/p>\n\n\n\nEvents, traditions and gastronomy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n Elba\u2019s culture is expressed through festivals, legends and flavours. Here are some unmissable events and specialities during your holiday .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grape Festival and Festival of the Innamorata in Capoliveri<\/h3>\n\n\n\n In October Capoliveri divides into four districts (Fosso, Torre, Fortezza and Baluardo) that compete during the Grape Festival<\/strong>, with costume parades, floats and tastings celebrating the wine tradition . On 14 July<\/strong> the Festival of the Innamorata<\/strong> takes place: a historical procession winds through the village to the beach of Innamorata, where crews compete to commemorate a love legend .<\/p>\n\n\n\nLegends of Monte Calamita<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Monte Calamita is shrouded in legend: according to local stories, the magnetite attracted the metal parts of ships, causing shipwrecks . Today, although such tales are evocative, excursions on the promontory allow you to observe magnetic phenomena that alter compasses while listening to stories of miners, pirates and hidden treasures .<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Food and wine: wines and traditional dishes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Elban cuisine blends rustic tradition and sea produce. Dishes to try include cacciucco<\/strong> (fish soup), gurguglione<\/strong> (vegetable ratatouille),
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