Marciana

Leaving behind the warmth of the sea, lets head towards the slopes of the mountains in search of tranquility and relief from the heat. Situated at an altitude of 375 meters above sea level, Marciana is one of Elba's most antique towns, boasting an abundance of historic and archeological wealth.
Under the rule of the Appiani, who chose this village for their residence, the small town of Marciana was transformed. A fortress was erected to protect the village's foundary and mint and was to be recognised later as one of the most effective forts of Elba.

Marciana

The town of Marciana seems to remain engulfed in an ancient medievel atmosphere; the enterance gates, narrow lanes and stairways, balconies decorated with colorful plants and flowers. Not far from the towns centre is a chair lift which extends along the mountainsides that leads to the peak of Mount Capanne at over 1000 meters above sea level.

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Of particular historical interest is the archeological museum which houses an array of significant findings.

For Trekking enthusiasts, the CAI n1 path that begins in the towns piazza leading up to the secluded San Cerbone at 530 meters of altitude is not to be missed. This is the place Saint Cerbone sought refuge back in 572 on his way to reaching the highest peak on the Island of Elba, Mount Capanne (1019 metres).

Another picturesque itinerary starts near the XII century Fortress, in the higher part of the town. The Fortress was built during the Republic of Pisa and used by the people as a shelter during incursions by pirates.

The trail, which winds through centuries-old chestnut woods, leads to the Madonna del Monte Sanctuary, on the northern side of Monte Giove, 627 metres above sea level. Already a place of worship in 1300, the sanctuary was built in 1595 and after a series of reconstructions, took on its present-day form.

By following a track which is located in the vicinity of the fortress we will eventually encounter this sanctuary which lies hidden amongst old chestnut trees.

At a short distance from Marciana, continuing up the hills the small village of Poggio awaits. Time appears to be standing still in this town with her cobble stone roads lined with colorful flowering balconies.

Life proceeds at a leisurely pace, keeping to the rhythm of the chiming bells of the towns churches, San Nicolo and San Lorenzo.
Nestled in the chestnut and holm oak woods not far from here flow the mineral waters of the renowned "Fonte Napoleone" springs.
Other popular Hamlets within the district of Marciana are the seaside resorts of Procchio, Sant'Andrea, Chiessi and Pomonte.

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Beaches: Chiessi (rocks), La Paolina (sand), Patresi (shingle), Pomonte (shingle and rocks), Procchio (sand), Punta Nera (rocks), S. Andrea (sand and rocks), Spartaia (sand).

HAMLETS: Chiessi, Cotoncello, Il Mortaio, Poggio, Pomonte, Procchio, Redinoce, La zanca, S. Andrea.

Other areas of hitorical and cultural interest: Church of San Cerbone, Madonna del Monte, Archaeological Museum.