The Italian island of Elba has a long history which has seen it settled by the Ligurians, Greeks, Etruscans and Romans. Yet for history scholars the world over it is the fact that Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled here in 1814-15 which is the island’s main claim to fame.
Standing on the Ligurian Sea with distant views of the Apuan Alps, the commercial Port of La Spezia is also home to Italy’s main naval base.
The small port of Portovenere stands on a peninsula overlooking the Gulf of La Spezia on the eastern coastline of the Italian Riviera. It is a charming village notable for the colourful houses which surround its ancient fishing harbour.
Such is the historic and cultural wealth of the Italian region of Tuscany that seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be found within its territory. It is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and was called home by many great artists and scientists including Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci and Galileo. Cruise ships visiting the region dock in the industrial port of Livorno which serves as a gateway for passengers heading for some of Europe’s most popular sights in the cities of Florence and Pisa. Port of Livorno Dating back to the 16th century when it was a small fishing
Most people know Pisa as the home of the Leaning Tower, but there’s a whole lot more to this city than just its famously off-kilter campanile. In fact, I think Pisa, nestled in the Arno River valley in the middle of Tuscany, is the ideal location for a romantic holiday. You and your beloved can sip Chianti, stroll the riverbanks, shop the local markets, watch the sun set over the water, and yes, pretend to hold up the Leaning Tower in this magical and historical place, which doesn’t get half the attention it truly deserves! So grab an Italian-to-English dictionary
