Portoferraio

...the Medicean port of Portoferraio

In 1600 Cardinal de Retz, admired Portoferraio and its port in amazement; and still today the scenery of the Medicean Port offered to sea coming people is enchanting.

For those arriving in the port, the ‘Martello’ Tower is the first rampart overlooking the sea, which presents the imposing fortification of the wide horseshoe shaped port.

Opposite it, in the centre of the port, the ‘Porta a Mare’ (Sea Gate), the entrance to the historical centre of the town can be seen, with all around a ‘crown’ of houses in pastel colours that are built along the perimeter of the ancient walls.

Portoferraio and its historical town centre live around the port offering splendid views and a lively atmosphere: characteristic cafés and restaurants, specialised shops and boutiques.

What to see in the town: Napoleon’s residence the ‘Villa dei Mulini, the Archaeological Museum, the Foresiana Picture Gallery, the Church of the Misericordia, the Falcone Fort and the Stella Fort.

Go all around the Island of Elba with its sea and the National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago to admire