Municipality of Marciana

Leaving the heat of the beaches behind, the road climbs towards the mountain slopes in search of peace and a little cool air. Situated in the hills at an altitude of 375 metres above sea level, Marciana is one of the oldest villages, rich in historical and archaeological heritage, with origins dating back to 35 BC.

Under the rule of the Appiani family, who chose it as their residence, the village underwent considerable development, beginning with the construction of the island's most protected fortress, used by the population as a refuge during pirate raids. The entire village still retains its former medieval character, from the entrance gates to the narrow stepped lanes, decorated with plants and flowers grown by the people of Marciana on their balconies.

Of particular interest is the Archaeological Museum, which houses important finds from the prehistory and protohistory of the Isola d'Elba. Also well worth seeing are the numerous discoveries dating back to the Etruscan and Roman periods.

Not far from the village is the departure station of the cable car, which in just a few minutes reaches the highest peak on the Isola d'Elba at an altitude of over one thousand metres: Monte Capanne.

Trekking enthusiasts can reach the hermitage of San Cerbone at an altitude of 530 metres, where the saint took refuge in 572, and from here continue to the summit of Monte Capanne (1,019 metres above sea level).

Another particularly scenic route starts near the fortress. The path marked by the chapels of the Stations of the Cross, through centuries-old chestnut woods, leads to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Monte, located on the northern slope of Monte Giove at 627 metres above sea level. A place of worship since the 14th century, the sanctuary was built in 1595 and, after several alterations, took on its present form in 1799.

In a short time, from Marciana it is also possible to reach the hamlet of Poggio. Here, time seems to have stood still: among the alleys, paved lanes and flower-filled balconies, life moves slowly, marked by the ringing of the church bells.

Not far away, surrounded by chestnut and holm oak woods, the renowned Napoleon low-mineral spring rises. Other important centres in the municipality of Marciana include the popular seaside resorts of Procchio, Sant'Andrea, Chiessi and Pomonte.

Events: Every year, Marciana hosts the Palio of Sant'Agabito, the patron saint of the medieval village. According to tradition, Donna Paola, after whom Porta Donna Paola is named, created this day of celebration on 18 August in memory of her deceased father.
The Marciana Autumn Festival is a culinary event held every October, where visitors can taste traditional chestnut-based dishes.
Saint Catherine of Alexandria, celebrated on 25 November, is the patron saint of Marciana.
Marciana's atmospheric living nativity scene is an Elban tradition offering the chance to experience the true magic of Christmas.
For details of scheduled events, visit www.elbaeventi.it.