Municipality of Porto Azzurro

An ancient fishing village, Porto Azzurro owes its name to a decision made in 1947 by the municipal administration, which chose to give the town a name with greater tourist appeal. It was previously called Portolongone, a name given to it in 1603 by Philip III of Spain, who intended to turn it into a fortification for the defence of the territory.

The focal point of the town and its social life, Piazza Matteotti is one of the largest and most beautiful squares on the island.

Walking through the narrow alleys and winding streets of the historic centre, visitors are immediately struck by majestic buildings bearing witness to the village’s ancient past. Among the most famous is the Forte San Giacomo, an imposing fortification commissioned by Philip III in 1602. The building was erected to strengthen the defensive network of the territory, as designed by Don Garcia di Toledo, based on the model used in the city of Antwerp, in response to the constant attacks by Saracen pirates. The fort had an important lookout and defensive function, a “role” it retained until the early nineteenth century, when it was decommissioned and converted into a prison.

While the fort attracts attention with its grandeur, the religious buildings captivate visitors with their elegance. Among the most interesting in Porto Azzurro are the Chiesa della Madonna del Carmine and the Chiesa di San Giacomo Maggiore.

Not far from Porto Azzurro, built on a rocky spur that can be reached on foot, stands the Santuario della Madonna di Monserrato. It was built in 1606 at the request of the Spanish governor Pons Y Leòn, who wished to reproduce on Elba the famous sanctuary erected near Barcelona.

The most convenient beach and the closest to the centre of Porto Azzurro is La Pianotta, characterised by crystal-clear sea, fine gravel and large rocks. Not far away are the beaches of Barbarossa, Reale and the highly distinctive Terranera.

From Porto Azzurro, visitors can also set off on a boat trip, exploring hidden small coves and enjoying snorkelling and diving over the island’s magnificent seabeds.

In summer, the town offers long, lively nights of entertainment, as well as many organised celebrations and events that make the evenings even more enjoyable.

Events: The patron saint of Porto Azzurro is San Giacomo, celebrated throughout the town on 25 July with various organised celebrations and events. In addition, the Madonna di Monserrato is celebrated every year on 8 September.
For further details, visit www.elbaeventi.it.