Chiessi
Discovering Chiessi on the Island of Elba
If you are looking for a quiet and authentic destination for your holiday on the Island of Elba, Chiessi might just be the perfect place for you. This hamlet in the municipality of Marciana, located along the "Coast of the Sun", boasts an ancient history and an unspoiled natural landscape that make it an excellent choice for those who love peace and tranquility.
Origins of the Name
The toponym Chiessi has uncertain origins but most likely derives from some small Romanesque-Pisan churches present on the mountains of this area of the island. Alternatively, reference could also be made to the Late Latin "classis" as "inhabited quarter". A third, less accredited theory refers to the word "chielsu" in Corsican language, which means "mulberry".
The Village
Chiessi is located on the western tip of the island and extends on the first slopes of Capo, Colle di Guglielmo and San Bartolomeo. Along the coast, the village is located between Punta del Timone and Punta della Testa, while near the town there are some rocky formations such as Cote Bizzicata and Cote Tombolata. The village consists of small white-washed houses and an unusual smooth and white cliff, with a small beach of equally white pebbles in the center. The village church, dedicated to Madonna di Loreto, was built in 1951. A maritime inlet to the south of the village is named Cala di Santa Maria.
The Semaphore of Campo delle Serre
One of the most interesting attractions in Chiessi is the Semaphore of Campo delle Serre, a telegraph station built in 1888 on the remains of an older observation post called "Guardia al Turco" dating back to the 16th century. This very isolated observation post looked out over Corsica, the Island of Pianosa and Capraia Island and remained in operation until 1953. Today, the two radiotelegraphic antennas and the remains of the transmission room remain. It is said to have also been used as shelter by hunters caught in bad weather.
Economy
Despite its direct access to the sea, the economy of Chiessi has always been based on agriculture and in particular on the cultivation of wine grapes. This activity, along with animal husbandry, constituted the focus of the local economy until the mid-20th century.
In conclusion, Chiessi is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility, unspoiled nature, and an authentic atmosphere. You can stroll through the white houses and the smooth white cliff, climb the mountain to visit the Semaphore of Campo delle Serre, and discover the natural beauties of this part of the island.
