Elba

Elba (ancient Ilva or Aethalia), island in eastern Italy, in the Tyrrhenian Sea, forming part of the province of Leghorn (Livorno) , off the coast of Tuscany. The highest point is Monte Capanne, 1,019 m (3,343 ft) above sea level, and the island's area is 223 sq km (86 sq mi). The climate is mild and the soil is fertile; olives, fruit, and wine grapes are grown. Tourism, the extraction of sea salt, fishing, and winemaking are also important to the economy. Elba is famous for the mining of iron ore. The chief city is Portoferraio.

The island has been ruled by many Mediterranean powers, including Genoa, Florence, Naples and Spain. In 1802 it passed to France. Elba is chiefly known, however, as the place of exile of Napoleon after his first abdication, from May 4, 1814, to February 26, 1815, when he escaped and returned to France. He enjoyed full sovereignty over the island, with the title of emperor. After Napoleon escaped from the island, it was restored to Tuscany, which became part of Italy in 1860. Population (estimate) 35,000.