Vignettes of Northern Italy

The Island of Elba

Elba is the largest island of the Tuscan Archipelago, lying between Corsica and the Italian mainland. As part of Leghorn province, it is separated from it by a 6-mile wide channel. The isalnd is 85 square miles and ranges from a mountainous west to a less rugged east coast.

Climate is mild all year round. Rain ranges from 28" to 42" per year, depending upon where on the island one resides. Population is estimated at about 30,000 people.

The undergrowth of Elba is "macchia," which is typical Mediterranean brush.

Like many other Italian islands, tourism has risen in the recent past. But Elba's basic income comes from iron ore deposits. Agriculture is important in the western part, with grapes, olives, fruits, cereals and vegetables making up most of the crop. In earlier days, granite was utilized by the Romans on Elba's eastern coast. Tuna and sardines are source of income from the seas.

While most people know ELba for its Napoleonic days, the island's history is long and interesting. From years before the birth of Christ, it was attacked and/or occupied by such diverse people as Etruscans, Syracuse Greeks, Lombards, Aragonese, Barbary pirates, Turks, Spanish, Germans, Tuscans, Neopolitans, and the British.

Because of its strategic position in European politics and strategy, Elba became a prize for all who controlled it. This is why forts were built and the harbor of Portoferraio improved.

One cannot escape the fact that Napoleon Bonaparte proves to be a most important personage in the island's history. From May 5, 1814 to Feburary 26, 1815, Bonaparte built roads and fortifications, drilled a smally armu there, sought to improve fishing and farming as he generally enlivened the island.

In September 1815, Elba was re-united with the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. It became part of the united Italy in 1861.

For tourists, Napoleon's exile still elicits memories. His country villa at San Martino contains a museum and collection pf paintings. There is also a museum of Portoferraio with relics of his dats on the island.

Last but not least, the island of Elba is where Alberto of Trattoria Alberto was born. For those of us who have tasted the cuisine of his restaurant, this is hardly a minor event.

- Norman Levine