During the Fascist regime, the island of Elba took on a role of primary importance. In response to both the economic crisis of 1929 and the rearmament efforts in preparation for the war in Ethiopia and the Second World War, Mussolini launched a series of programs aimed at increasing iron extraction.

The period of German occupation also left its scars on the Tuscan island, but it was June 17, 1944, that marked its history most profoundly. What was celebrated in the rest of Italy as the “Liberation” took on an extremely tragic character on Elba.

The Allied landing, known as Operation Brassard, took place on June 17, 1944, bringing to the island French troops stationed in Corsica, many of whom were Moroccan and Senegalese soldiers. About 15,000 men, mostly young Africans from the colonies and insufficiently trained, arrived on Elba, only to meet death immediately, as the Nazis had mined the beaches in advance. It took two full days to complete the liberation of the island. As “compensation” for the risks endured during the operation, French troops were granted the droit de prise (right of plunder): they were authorized to loot, steal, and commit acts of violence, including sexual assaults. Official reports from the Ministry document around 200 women who were repeatedly raped.

Amid this dramatic context emerged the figure of Olimpia Mibelli. Born on March 17, 1923, in Portoferraio to a humble and illiterate family, Olimpia began working early as a laundress and married at just 15 to Angiolo Ferrini, a soldier stationed in Livorno. Sadly, her husband died young, leaving her a widow. In 1944, at only 21 years old, Olimpia volunteered herself to the French soldiers in order to protect the lives, honor, and dignity of the women of Elba. Her act of sacrifice quickly became a taboo subject, something people were not allowed to speak about publicly.

Despite this silence, Olimpia rebuilt her life and eventually passed away in 1985, surrounded by the love of her family. Her story, once hidden, is now recognized as an example of courage: the municipality of Portoferraio has dedicated a street to her and awarded her a Gold Medal in her honor.