The Old Port of Porto Santo Stefano

The Old Port Santo Stefano has a whole identity of its own. The most ancient and historical one. A profile with a hidden heritage that with its placid existence, dresses its age with property, preserving the charm brought by the sea and navigation. We are talking about Porto Vecchio, which is located in the western part of the seaside resort of the municipality of Monte Argentario.

The structure brings with it an ancient and decidedly quaint charm that adds to Porto Santo Stefano’s respectable setting. The ports date back to the sixteenth century, and it was not until the seventeenth century, thanks to the influence of the Spanish, that it emerged in the strategic landscape of the coast. This aspect necessitated the construction of a fortress to protect the port, with the famous Torre Antica erected behind it, in order to confirm municipal ownership of the important naval territory.

This image, still endures today, but not in the Old Tower, of which there is no longer a view, as a result of World War II bombing.We are talking about a port structure that has seen the Port of Valle, which over the years has increasingly carved out a predominant role as a result of its commercial role.

The Old Port, has consequently remained a landing place for fishermen and safe mooring for boats passing through or sailing on tourist itineraries. It remains everyone’s opinion, however, that the facility is preferred by many, precisely because of its distinctive appearance. The setting, in fact, possesses a pier bordering on dilapidated, called the Moletto, which is nonetheless equipped with good signage in aid of coastal landers at night.

On the Tyrrhenian Sea side, on the other hand, stands a lighthouse, diligently marking its location, illuminating the dock capable of offering more than 100 berths, with depths from 1.5 to 5 meters. We are talking about a geographical stretch of Tuscany, which is particularly influenced by the Maremma. Therefore, when entering, it is always advisable to pay attention to the strong winds in the first quadrant.

The ports enjoy an excellent reputation, and even in high season, are seen to be well populated, but still remaining agile and without particular crowding. The attractions of Porto Santo Stefano, remain touristy, but certainly not particularly endowed to a bustling sea life. The only note remains June, the month in which the resort and ports, host Argentario Sailing Week. Organized by the Yacht Club Santo Stefano, the sailing event is very famous and holds great interest among sailing enthusiasts.

The Porto Vecchio Santo Stefano remains a point of great pride in the Tuscan resort and still protects its historical identity, without having let go of its function as a seaport, still faithful to the main activities for boats and passionate sailors.