History of Elba Island

The most treasured possession of the island must be looked for under the earth. For more than 4000 years, generations of miners have excavated in search of, first copper, and then iron.

ELBA ISLAND THE FORTUNE OF THE ETRUSCANS

The natural mineral wealth of the Tyrhennic coast and islands was one of the principle sources of the Etruscan fortune until the end of the iron age (9th-8th century B.C.). Today one can see significant relics housed in modern museums like those in Campiglia Marittma, Rio Marina, Rio nell'Elba and Capoliveri.

--> Continue - Elba Island the Etruscans

ELBA ISLAND IN ROMAN TIMES

From the decline of Etruscan power, the Romans inherited the iron and steel industry, but also saw the value in the granite deposits, the curative mud found at the hot springs of San. Giacomo, the beauty in the landscape, and the excellence of the wine....

--> Continue - Elba Island in Roman Times

THE AGE OF THE PISAN RULE (sec. VI-XII)

During the Middle Ages, it was the Marine Republic of Pisa that took advantage of the iron and granite mines of Elba; the major part of the columns that adorn the Piazza dei Miracoli were sculpted by the skilful stone-cutters of San Piero.

--> Continue  - The Age of the Pisan Rule

ELBA ISLAND IN THE AGE OF THE GRAND DUCHY

In the 13th century, Elba became a part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany governed by Pietro Leopoldo. The Grand Duke enacted many administrative and legislative reforms that favored a rapid economic growth....

--> Continue - Elba Island History on Medici Age

THE PRENAPOLEONIC HISTORY FROM ELBA ISLAND

In March 1799, French troops were sent from Livorno to occupy Portoferraio. The citizens were initially hostile towards the occupants, but being able to rely on the approval of the governor and the sympathizing Jacobeans, the resistance was soon won.

--> Continue - The Prenapoleonic History

NAPOLEON BONAPARTE

The isle of Elba is well noted in Italy and the world over for it's natural beauty, and its richness of mineral ores found beneath the surface, Its notoriety is also bound to a name: Napoleon Bonaparte.

--> Continue - Napoleon Bonaparte on Elba Island

THE ESCAPE FROM NAPOLEON BONAPARTE

On February 16, 1815, Napoleon wrote to General Douot: Give the order for the Brig to enter the dock and turn it around on its keel, shine it, seal the water ways, resurface the careening and everything else necessary for taking it to the sea....

--> Continue - The Escape from Napoleon Bonaparte