The Canali Spring of Rio nell’Elba has a considerable historical significance for the town, as it constituted a precious asset for the territory, subjected in summer to lengthy periods of draught. Rio nell’Elba derives its name from the "rivus" generated by this spring. This waterway was also wisely exploited to build basins which supplied hydraulic energy to a series of mills in the valley below, of which ruins remain today. The flour produced was given as pay to the mine workers. The water of the springs flows into the public wash-house, perfectly restored and equipped with an excellent system of legends which reconstruct the affairs tied to the historical spring.

Beside the public wash-house, the Park Authority and the Administration of Rio nell’Elba have sited the headquarters of the Park House of the Tuscan Archipelago, instituted on July 22, 1996 by a Decree of the President of the Republic.