Imagine finding yourself on an island, a tiny hidden pearl of a famous Tuscan archipelago, where time seems to stop. Where the crystal clear sea bathes impervious cliffs, the wind whispers between the pines and the history is intertwined with wild nature. Welcome to the island of Gorgona, a corner of paradise which, despite the undeniable beauty, has experienced multiple transformations: from refuge for the monks, during the Middle Ages, to criminal colony, to become a natural reserve of rare biodiversity.
Between nature and historical value
Gorgona is the smallest island of the Tuscan archipelago national park, with a surface of just 2.23 km² and a territory that develops just over 5 km of coast. It is located 36 km from Livorno, the city that governs it administratively. In the face of modest dimensions, the island boasts an extraordinary charm, thanks to the strategic position, in the heart of the Mediterranean, and the combination of unspoiled nature and historical finds. The mountainous landscape of the island, which culminates at 225 meters with Punta Gorgona, is crossed by three small valleys, one of which leads to the beach of Cala dello Scalo, where the small port of the island is located.
As mentioned, in addition to the natural beauty of the territory, the island of Gorgona is imbued with history, that of monks and military garrisons, which over the centuries have tried to protect it from barbarian raids. Already inhabited by the Neolithic, the island takes its name from Gorgon, a mythological figure who, according to some, would also have given the name to the legendary jellyfish. From 591 AD, the abbot Orosio founded a monastery that venerated the relics of San Gorgonio, the case that made a religious stage of a certain importance. The story continues in the Middle Ages, to arrive in the nineteenth century, when the island became the seat of an agricultural criminal colony, a penitentiary that is still active today.
An excursion not to be missed: prepare for the trip
If you are thinking of visiting Gorgona, prepare for a journey from the multiple aspects, in which physical effort will go hand in hand with the emotional and intellectual one. The visit to the island is a unique experience, made possible thanks to the collaboration between the prison administration and the National Park. The visits are guided and strictly contingent: only 100 people a day can set foot on this special island. To book, you need to do it online well in advance, starting from 9 on February 15 (as regards 2025). But be careful: once you arrive, you will have to scrupulously follow the rules.
During the visit, you cannot move independently. It is mandatory to be accompanied by a guide, which will lead you through impervious paths and unforgettable panoramas. In addition, bathing is prohibited, no phones, and no photos: Gorgona is a protected corner, a place where nature is intact and the imprint of man is minimal.
The wonders of nature
Despite the troubled history, Gorgona is today a real refuge for fauna and flora. The island houses over 400 floristic species, a vegetation that covers 90% of its territory and that changes color according to the season. In the spring, the island is tinged with blue and purple thanks to the flowering of the rosemary, which grows luxuriantly between myrtle, the heather, the strawberry tree and the lentisco. In the most repaired areas, the Pino d’Aleppo stands out, while in the coastal areas we can meet plants such as sea fennel and the rare lemon Gorgonae, endemic of the island.
In Gorgona, nature has found its safer refuge. The sea that surrounds it is another wonder: protected from all types of human impact, it has become a study area for rich biodiversity. The dolphins and whales, which crown the waters of the international cetacean sanctuary, are assiduous visitors, as well as numerous species of migratory birds, including the pilgrim hawk, which nests on the adjacent cliffs.
How to prepare for trekking
If you think Gorgona is just a corner of pure tranquility, you are wrong. The island is also a place of adventure, with a trekking path that crosses the wildest part. To undertake the excursion, you will have to wear trekking shoes (they must be approved by the guide) and prepare to walk for about 7 km, with a difference in height of 300 meters. The route starts from the small port of Cala dello Scalo and winds through a landscape of rare beauty. We pass in front of the remains of a Roman villa, you arrive at the Belvedere with a spectacular view of Cala Maestra, and continue to the Nuova Tower, built by the doctors. The stop at Punta Paratella, where the sea breaks on the rocks, gives an indescribable emotion.
Do not forget to bring a stock of water with you, a packed lunch and, above all, not to leave any refusal behind you. Gorgona is a place that deserves to be preserved, and every small gesture matters to guarantee its beauty even to future generations.
How to book and other useful advice
There Visit to Gorgona is An experience that must be booked in advance. The cost of the excursion is 55 euros for adults, while the boys between 5 and 12 years pay 45 euros. Children under 4 can participate for free. The price includes maritime transport departing from Livorno (Porto Mediceo), entry to the island and driving. But be careful, since the island is home to a penitentiary, it is essential to follow all the indications provided by the guide and local authorities. Not only for security, but also for the respect of such a special place.
For more information and to make the reservation we refer you to the official website.
