Capraia Isola, Island commune in Tuscan Archipelago, Italy
Description
Capraia Isola is an island commune in the Tuscan Archipelago off the coast of Italy, rising from steep rock faces that climb directly from the Tyrrhenian Sea. Hidden coves with pebble beaches alternate with rugged cliffs, while dense scrubland of evergreen shrubs covers much of the slopes.
History
The Etruscans used the island as a base before Genoa fortified it into a defensive position during medieval times. From 1873 to 1986 it served as a penal colony, with abandoned buildings still visible today.
Culture
The island takes its name from the Latin word for wild goat, referring to the herds that once roamed freely across these slopes. Fishermen sell their daily catch directly at the small harbor, while hikers follow narrow trails through rosemary bushes and wild herbs.
Practical
Boats from Livorno dock at the single harbor, from where a paved road leads up to the main village. Hiking paths can be steep and uneven, so sturdy shoes and plenty of water are advisable.
Did you know?
Volcanic rock gives the cliffs at Cala Rossa a deep red tone that stands out against the blue water, especially in late afternoon light. Mineral deposits form natural patterns in the rock walls that resemble oxidized metal.
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Forte di San Giorgio
408 m
Zenobito Tower
5.6 km
Punta Ferraione Lighthouse
430 m
Santo Stefano
1.7 km
Sant'Antonio (Capraia)
305 m
San Nicola
229 m
Torre del Porto
243 m
Réserve naturelle des îles du Cap Corse
31.1 km
Sémaphore de Monte Arpagna
4.2 km
Torretta del Bagno
523 m
Santa Maria Assunta
447 m
Barbici's Tower
2.8 km
Cala del Ceppo
2.4 km
Lo Scoglione
4 km
Cala della Mortola
2.1 km
Isola di Capraia - area terrestre e marina
2.1 kmScarpata continentale dell'Arcipelago Toscano
27.2 kmScenic viewpoint
2.4 kmScenic viewpoint
3.2 kmPunta dela Bellavista
794 mSpiaggia del Frate
461 mLa Grotta
120 mStatue, Work of art
4.2 kmScenic viewpoint
475 mScenic viewpoint
377 mScenic viewpoint
703 mWayside shrine
2.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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