It has developped recently, although it has always existed as a place where mineral from the iron-mines nearby was stored and loaded. Remains of groups of people of ancient times, that had stopped in this place just because of the presence of metals have been found in a Cave near S.Giuseppe. Here a necropolis of culture of Rinaldone (2000 BC) has been discovered. Nowadays the mines of Rio area are closed and the Tourism has become the the main economic resourse.

Rio Marina Aerial view - Picture Carlo Carletti

Cavo - Picture Carlo Carletti

In Rio Marina district there is the small Village Cavo, that can be reached by a coastal road or by the Parata inner road. Near Cavo remains of many etruscan furnaces have been discovered, together with the ruins of an ancient roman villa of the 1st century AD. 

Not to be missed, the Tonietti Mausoleum, designed by Architect Coppedè.

Rio Albano lake - Picture Carlo Carletti

Rio is one of the port connecting Elba to and from Piombino. Just at the port is the tower built by Giacomo Appiano V in 1534. Not to be missed is without any doubts the Museum of Elba Minerals with pieces of minerals from the mines nearby and from other parts of the island. 

In the surroundings important are the panoramic street to Porticciolo, Ortano Bay, very popular touristic resort, and the mines, today partially open to public. 

Terra Nera lake - Picture Carlo Carletti