Elba and Napoleon’s Residences

Besides crystal-clear sea, the colors of its nature, and the richness of its minerals, Elba Island is also famous worldwide for its connection to **Napoleon Bonaparte**. The island served as the place of exile for the French emperor, where he spent about 10 months, from May 3, 1814, to February 26, 1815. After the devastating Battle of Leipzig and the Treaty of Fontainebleau on April 14, 1814, Napoleon, the emperor of all of Europe at the time, was forced to abdicate the French throne and accept a new realm: the island of Elba.

Contrary to what many may think, Napoleon was not imprisoned on Elba: he chose the island for his exile and ruled there, bringing more innovations than any other government had done. For the first time in centuries, Elba was unified under one flag, and for the first time, after a life full of battles and exiles, Napoleon Bonaparte was forced to pause and govern a land that would forever remember him.

- **Villa San Martino**: Located on the outskirts of Portoferraio, this villa was built by the emperor by expanding an existing rustic house. The villa itself is small and modest, so it should not be confused with the Napoleonic museum built by Prince Demidoff, which was constructed several decades later.

- **Villa dei Mulini**: Situated in the upper part of the historic center of Portoferraio, on a cliff overlooking Le Viste beach, it is about halfway between Forte Falcone and Forte Stella. It is named after the windmills that existed there before Napoleon's arrival.

If you visit Elba, don't miss the opportunity to explore these historical gems. It is truly a beautiful experience.