Tourists and visitors are drawn to this granite island in all seasons, attracted by the sparkling sea and the beauty of nature, by the colours, the flavours. High pink cliffs drop sharply to the sea, broken only by small coves, bays and the large, sandy beach at Campese.
The island of Giglio's mild climate assures its visitors a vacation without unpleasant surprises. The flora and fauna are particularly interesting and the Mediterranean scrub blends with olive groves and perfumed vineyards. It is from these vineyards that the esteemed white wine, Ansonica is produced.
Today's inhabitants are concentrated in the three centers, Giglio Porto, Giglio Castello and Campese. The charming town of Giglio Porto is nestled along a cove between two piers and backed by a terraced hill planted in vineyards. From here, a narrow, winding road climbs up to Giglio Castello.
The village has kept its original fortified appearance, surrounded by high medieval walls complete with towers. The Rocca Pisana looms over a maze of narrow streets, covered by arches, dark under-passages, steep staircases and old houses, crowded on top of each other. Campese is located on the island's western coast. It is in the centre of a bay, bordered by a wide, sandy beach that is enhanced by the presence of an imposing tower built at the time of Ferdinando I.
Events. The 'Festa di San Lorenzo' is celebrated every August 10th at Giglio Porto. Here, three neighbourhoods compete in the Palio Marinaro and at night, the whole town is illuminated by spectacular fire-works. On August 16th, Giglio Campese celebrates San Rocco with festivities that begin for Ferragosto and end with a procession in the sea and a pyrotechnic display.
In mid September, the old town of Giglio Castello holds the 'Festa di San Mamiliano'. This is a traditional celebration with sacred rites and propitiatory dances dedicated to the island's patron saint. At Christmas, guided tours, both during the day and at night, visit the underwater crib displayed on the floor of the bay at Campese.
Tourists and visitors are drawn to this granite island in all seasons, attracted by the sparkling sea and the beauty of nature, by the colours, the flavours. High pink cliffs drop sharply to the sea, broken only by small coves, bays and the large, sandy beach at Campese.
