This small gem of a city is anchored in the peninsula of Monte Argentario, and enveloped by a blanket of beautiful sand and rock beaches. Porto Ercole is a splendid central destination that warmly welcomes tourists, and is a perfect getaway spot for those interested in traveling to nearby towns and historic sites for touring or art visits. From here, Siena, Tarquinia, San Gimignano (to name only a few of Porto Ercole's neighbors) lie directly at your fingertips.

History
The spirit and magnificence of Italy's Etruscan, Roman and Renaissance periods retain an unmistakable presence both within this popular holiday town and throughout the outlying area, known as Argentario. The district gets its name from the majestic promontory Argentaria that appears to rocket straight up from the sea. Long an old fishing village, Porto Ercole continues to be known for its boating marinas and as a retreat for sailing and water sports.

Sights
The highlights contained inside the town's walls include the 16th century Palazzo Consani, located in Piazza Santa Barbara, and the old parish church of San Erasmo, which continues as in times past to offer its sacred protection to sailors. The whole city is dominated by a fortress (la Rocca), which looms over the port and bay and which was architecturally designed by Giovanni Camerini. The two other forts erected in Porto Ercole are Fort Stella and Fort Filippo. Fort Stella dominates a large area located at the back of the port, and is named for its geometrical form of a star (which houses a hexagonal courtyard at its interior). Fort Filippo is a formidable structure originally built with the best military architecture of its time. Filippo II was responsible for its construction and Giovanni Camerini for its engineering and design.

Cuisine
Several dishes prized by residents of Porto Ercole are Minestra di Pesce (a flavorful fish soup), Mare e Monti (literally, "Sea and Mountains," and made with fried strips of cuttlefish and porcini mushrooms), and Frittelle di Giuseppe (sweetened fritters or pancakes, prepared with sugar, lemon and vanilla).

email this article printer friendly