On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Elba Island pauses to relive one of its oldest, most exciting and fascinating traditions: the Festa dell'Innamorata. This spectacular historical re-enactment, set back in 1534, brings to life the tragic and romantic love story of young Maria and Lorenzo, Elba's "Betrothed," whose affair was broken by the raids of Barbarossa's Saracen pirates.
The event is divided into two distinct moments, capable of transforming first the hilltop village and then the beach of the same name into an open-air theater:
8:30 p.m. | The Historical Procession (Old Town): The evening kicks off in the heart of Capoliveri. More than a hundred figures in faithful period dress will parade through the village's characteristic alleys and alleyways, accompanied by nobles, ladies, knights, sailors and the town crier who will proclaim the start of the celebrations.
The Descent to the Beach: At sunset, the procession will move from the village to the Innamorata Beach. Here the atmosphere becomes magical: the entire bay and shoreline are extinguished and lit only by the flickering light of thousands of lit flashlights, creating a scene from another time.
The Disfida della Ciarpa: It is the competitive and highlight of the night. The four historic districts of Capoliveri(Fosso, Fortezza, Torre and Caput Liberum) compete at sea in an exciting rowing competition on traditional fixed rowing boats.
Mary's Plunge: As legend has it, the nautical competition kicks off only after the dramatic and spectacular plunge into the sea of a village girl who plays "Mary," launching herself from the Ciarpa Rock to be ideally reunited with her Lorenzo. The winning ward will be awarded the girl's "Ciarpa" (shawl).
The Beach Party: After the award ceremony for the rowers, the festivities continue on the beach throughout the night with live music, bonfires and toasts by the sea.
Location: Depart from the center of Capoliveri and transfer to the Innamorata Beach.
Admission: Free and free of charge.
Who it's for: Tourists, residents, local history lovers, couples looking for romance, and families.
