L’Isola d’Elba nella Seconda guerra mondiale. Studi e riflessioni a 80 anni dallo sbarco del 17 giugno 1944

The contribution presents the results of research conducted on the military posts of World War II on the Island of Elba, a territory that has been contested since ancient times due to its mineral resources and strategic position in maritime commercial traffic. Following World War I, the renewed geopolitical scenario within the Kingdom of Italy identified France as a potential enemy to defend against in the event of an invasion. For this reason, a defense process was initiated between 1920 and 1930, leading to the first plans for the construction of eight coastal batteries on the island. With Italy’s entry into the war in 1940, the Royal Army began a fortification process that intensified from 1942 onwards. Subsequent events on the mainland led to the planning of Operation Brassard, the landing and liberation of the island, which commenced on June 17, 1944. One of the study's objectives is to enhance understanding of that part of Elba's history, 80 years after the Allied landing, which is known to few. It also aims to promote the recognition of those military structures that are still present and accessible, which form an integral part of the island's landscape and scenery. These structures tell their story and explain why they occupy some of the island's most spectacular and striking locations, often in dominant positions along the coast and in the inland areas.