GIGLIO PORT
A Wonderful Fishing Village
Giglio Porto is the beating heart of the Isola del Giglio, a charming village located on the east coast of the island, facing Tuscany. This small and picturesque port is the main access point to the island, being the arrival point of the ferries from Porto Stefano.
Giglio Porto is a charming and lively village, which offers a perfect combination of history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in Roman history, local gastronomy or simply relaxing on the golden beaches, Giglio Porto has something to offer for everyone. With its crystalline waters, its picturesque streets and its welcoming atmosphere, it is an unmissable destination for anyone visiting the Giglio Island.
History and Features
Built for the first time by the Romans, Giglio Porto has gone through centuries of history, keeping its essence and charm intact. Despite its small size, the port has been able to reconcile commercial needs with tourist ones, offering visitors a unique experience. The multicolored houses that are reflected in the crystal clear waters of the port create a postcard atmosphere, making every visit unforgettable.
During the day, the atmosphere is lively and busy, with ferries arriving and departing and the streets filled with tourists and locals. But with the departure of the last ferry, the village is transformed, offering a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for evening strolls through the narrow streets, small shops and craft workshops. The restaurants, many of which are built on stilts, offer a breathtaking view of the sea, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Attractions and Places of Interest
One of the main places of interest in Giglio Porto is the Caletta del Saraceno. This small cove, reachable through an alley that begins at the Torre del Saraceno, houses the remains of a Roman cetaria and part of a Roman villa dating back to the 1st-2nd century AD, which belonged to the Domitii Enobarbi. These archaeological remains are a silent witness to the island’s rich history and its importance in the ancient world.
Another symbol of Giglio Porto is the statue of the Madonna Stella Maris, positioned on the eastern pier in 2013. This statue, donated by the sculptor Umberto Tagni, is a tribute to the sailors and sailors who cross the waters of Giglio, offering protection and blessing.
Unfortunately, in January 2012, Giglio Porto became famous all over the world for the sinking of the Costa Concordia, a tragedy that deeply marked the local community.
Services and Activities
Giglio Porto offers a wide range of services for visitors and residents. Here you can find banks, a post office, a pharmacy and a medical center. Furthermore, the village is full of restaurants, artisan shops and boutiques, offering a wide range of shopping and gastronomy options.
For those interested in exploring the island, Giglio Porto is the ideal starting point. Numerous boats depart from here offering taxi-boat services, allowing tourists to reach the various beaches and coves of the island. Furthermore, mini cruises are organized to circumnavigate the island or to reach the island of Giannutri. For those who prefer to explore the island by land, it is possible to rent scooters or bicycles, or use the bus and taxi services.
The closest beaches to Giglio Porto are those of Cannelle and Arenella, easily reachable on foot or with short journeys by car or bicycle.