Rio nell'Elba

A small medieval mining village, perched 178 meters above sea level on the slopes of Monte Capannello, Rio nell''Elba is one of the towns richest in history and tradition on the whole island. From pre-history it has constituted an important mining center and in recent years UNESCO has entered it as a place of major scientific interest. On the ''World Heritage Provisional List of Geological Sites'' map, Rio and Monte Calamita are classified as geological monuments among the most prestigious in the world. The town of Rio still retains its medieval appearance with its narrow alleyways, tiny piazzas and flowering balconies. It''s the mining heart of Elba where mining activity was concentrated right up until the 1970''s. Today, many of the shops sell minerals to collectors. Of particular relevance is the little Piazza della Chiesa di Santa Trinita'' (11th century), the Fortress of San Giacomo, and the charming center with its characteristic narrow streets and the old washing troughs carved out of stone. From Rio one can take many excursions. Most notably would be a visit to the Fortress of Volterraio that towers on the peak bearing the same name, and that Vanni di Gherardo Rau had the fortress built in the 11th century during the Pisan domination, the Fortress of Giogo on Mt. Giove from which one can enjoy a breathtaking view, the Ruins of Grassere and the Sanctuary dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria on Mt. Serra.