This talk introduced to a non-specialised audience the rich history of Elba Island, with particular attention to three key moments in time that influenced its development and the construction of urban spaces, defenses, and noteworthy buildings. These were the Roman period (villas), the Medicis period (fortresses, fortified ports, towns, public buildings, road networks) and the Napoleonic years (theatre, public buildings, residences).
The island's current identity is related to its historical central role within the Mediterranean, as a source of iron/industries and because of its long lasting military importance.