Porto Azzurro, Coastal municipality on Elba Island, Italy
Porto Azzurro is a coastal town on Elba Island with a sheltered harbor ringed by protective hills. The settlement spreads along a rocky shoreline with small sandy stretches and boat moorings.
The settlement was called Porto Longone until it was renamed; construction of a fortress began in 1557 under Spanish oversight. This fortification changed hands several times and left its mark on the town's layout.
The town takes its name from the brilliant blue of the water in its harbor, which locals and visitors have long admired. This blue hue shapes how people experience the waterfront and the beaches nearby.
Visitors arrive by regular ferry from mainland Tuscany, with a crossing time of about 30 to 50 minutes depending on the route. It is best to arrive early during summer months when beaches and the harbor fill up quickly.
The place served as a military harbor for centuries and retained strategic importance well into the modern era, which is reflected in certain buildings and the fortified layout. This naval heritage remains visible in how the town is physically organized around defense and boat traffic.
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