Portoferraio, Elbe, Italy — cruise port guide

The island of Elbe attracts painters, writers and photographers for its stunning mountain scenery, cliff-fringed coast, secluded coves, and crystal waters. History buffs, too, find plenty of interest just by concentrating on Elba’s most famous resident, the exiled Napoleon Bonaparte.   Although he only spent 10 months here (from May 1814 to February 1815), he made valuable contributions to road and civic works. His one-time official residence, the Villa dei Molini, stands on the seaward side of the Piazza Napoleon and contains his library. Although the emperor died on the island of St. Helena, mass is still said each year in Portoferraio on the anniversary of his death. Relics in the Misericordia Church include a reproduction of Napoleon's coffin and a bronze cast of his death mask. About four miles inland from Portoferraio, on the slopes of Monte San Martino, stands the Villa San Martino amid luxuriant vegetation. The villa served as the emperor's summer residence and is now a museum.  Pier InformationThe ship is scheduled to dock. From the pier, it is a 10-minute walk to the town center. Taxis are generally available at the pier.

Shopping. A variety of shops are found in the town center. Typical souvenirs relate to Napoleon and his time on the island. Leather articles, Italian fashions and locally mined semi-precious stones may be of interest. Store hours are usually from 9 to 1 and 4 to 8.