The Piccola Miniera is a unique attraction on Elba Island, born from the vision and passion of Emilio Giacomelli. With over forty years of experience in the field of gemstones, Giacomelli has turned his artisanal expertise into a true cultural experience.
In his cutting workshop, not only are jewelry and objects crafted into works of art, but the Piccola Miniera itself has become a meeting point between the island’s mining tradition and the art of gemstone processing.
Visiting the Piccola Miniera offers a fascinating perspective not only on the mining history of Porto Azzurro but also on the art of transforming raw minerals into creations of extraordinary beauty.
Where the Piccola Miniera is located
The Piccola Miniera Elba Island is located in Porto Azzurro, a short distance from the village’s historic center. Situated at Via Provinciale Est 34, the mine is easily accessible, being just 500 meters from the heart of Porto Azzurro, along the road leading to Rio Marina.
In addition to guided mine tours, the site includes an Etruscan mining museum and a large mineral exhibition.
Here, visitors can also observe the artisanal gemstone processing in the on-site workshop, adding educational and practical value to the visit.
Opening hours of the Piccola Miniera in Porto Azzurro
To best plan your visit to the Piccola Miniera Porto Azzurro, it is important to know the opening hours, which vary depending on the season:
March, October, November:
Morning: 09:00 – 12:30
Afternoon: 14:30 – 17:00
April, May, September:
Morning: 09:00 – 12:30
Afternoon: 14:30 – 18:30
June, July, August:
All day: 09:00 – 19:30
During the Christmas holidays, hours are reduced and the mine is open:
Morning: 11:00 – 12:00
Afternoon: 16:00 – 17:00
These hours are designed to offer flexibility to visitors, allowing them to enjoy the mine’s attractions even during peak times or specific periods of the year. Be sure to check for updates directly with the mine before planning your visit, to avoid any inconvenience.
Prices
The Piccola Miniera of Porto Azzurro offers various ticket options for visitors of all ages and group sizes:
Adults: €10.00
Reduced: €7.50 (for children aged 6 to 12)
Mini: €4.00 (for children aged 3 to 5)
Discounts are also available for groups and school groups, making the Piccola Miniera an ideal destination for educational visits and group outings. It is recommended to contact the mine directly for details on group rates and to take advantage of special offers, so you can best organize your visit.
Contacts and reservations for visiting the Piccola Miniera
To book your visit to the Piccola Miniera of Porto Azzurro or to request further information, you can contact the facility directly using the following details:
Phone:
+39 0565 95350
+39 0565 920261
+39 342 1677459
+39 338 4419351
Email: info@lapiccolaminiera.it
It is advisable to book in advance, especially during high season, to ensure availability.
If you are planning your visit to Elba Island and need transportation, consider booking a ferry with Blu Navy.
This service offers a convenient travel option to the island, making it easier to reach not only Porto Azzurro but all its attractions. Using Blu Navy Ferries is an efficient and enjoyable way to start your Elba Island adventure, arriving ready to explore all the wonders this island has to offer.
What you’ll find at the Piccola Miniera of Porto Azzurro
The Piccola Miniera of Porto Azzurro offers an engaging experience that celebrates the rich mining traditions of Elba Island. Visitors of all ages can explore a fascinating itinerary that spans from history to modern mining techniques.
The mine, faithfully reconstructed with natural and authentic materials, is explored aboard an original mining train from Elba.
This guided tour allows you to experience the atmosphere of historic mines in complete safety, making the visit both educational and fun.
Inside the museum, visitors will find a vast collection of Elban minerals, accompanied by educational panels showing discovery locations. The museum also includes detailed models and reproductions of furnaces used by the Etruscans to smelt iron, enriching the visit with a journey into ancient history. An informative video shows traditional mining techniques and iron smelting operations, completing the educational experience.
In the artisanal workshop, guests can watch the processing phases of the stones and the creation of jewelry, many of which are available for purchase in the adjacent showroom. This area also offers the possibility to customize the jewelry, making each piece unique and personal.
The Piccola Miniera offers interactive educational workshops, designed specifically for children. These activities allow kids to handle Elban minerals, encouraging discovery and learning through play and creativity.
After visiting the mine, guests can relax in the tasting area, where typical Elban products are offered. Here, visitors can sample and enjoy local wines, honey, and oil, all excellent examples of the island’s rich gastronomic offerings.
The Piccola Miniera bar is ideal for a relaxing break after exploring the many attractions on site.
To further enrich your experience of the island’s mining history, consider visiting the Mineral Museum of Rio Marina, and don’t forget to explore the most beautiful beaches of Elba Island to complete your day with a touch of natural relaxation.
The Piccola Miniera of Porto Azzurro is an exceptional destination that combines education, history, and the natural beauty of Elba Island.
This attraction not only offers a fascinating immersion in the island’s rich mining history, but also the chance to take part in interactive workshops, taste local products, and enjoy a relaxing moment in its welcoming bar and refreshment area. Perfect for visitors of all ages, the Piccola Miniera promises an experience full of discovery and fun.