The magical island of Capri! Island of Capri, Italy: photos, attractions, hotels, reviews Villa Jovis on Mount Tiberius
One of the most popular resorts in Naples, the island of Capri in the Tyrrhenian Sea has been loved by tourists, including very high-ranking ones, since ancient times. The island of Capri, if viewed on a map, is located on the southern side of the Gulf of Naples, not far from the site of the Cape Sorrento.
Location of the island of Capri on the map of Italy
At one time this wonderful Mediterranean place was bought by the emperor Augustus from the inhabitants of Naples in exchange for in order to have in his possession a personal particle of paradise.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the island again belonged to the Neapolitans.
The history of the origin of the name of the island varies - according to some, it comes from the word "Caprea" - goat, others believe that the name comes from the Greek noun "κάπρος" - boar. The island of Capri, Italy, does not differ in the breadth of space - it stretches only 7 km in length and a little less than 3 km in width.
Weather on the island
This resort is spoiled by the green riot of local vegetation (about a thousand varieties), and the mild climatic conditions. The weather in Capri seems to be created for a relaxing and happy holiday: there is very little rain here, and they are not prolonged, and the average daily temperature is about 25-28 degrees Celsius, which allows local residents and guests enjoy the soft rays of the sun all year round.
Capri Island is surrounded by greenery thanks to its mild climate
The best time to relax on the island is from June to October, as in May the water in the sea is not yet comfortable enough for swimming.
From July to August, there is usually an influx of tourists here, and prices rise accordingly.
Therefore, the best thing is, perhaps, to rest here in June, September and October, although the rest of the months are also excellent.
Capri landmarks
Like all cities and regions of Italy, famous for the highest level of culture since ancient times, Capri abounds the most beautiful places and unique architectural structures. That is why the sights of the island of Capri so attract travelers from all over the world.
Like all cities and regions of Italy, famous for the highest level of culture since ancient times, Capri abounds in the most beautiful places and unique architectural structures:
- Blue Grotto. Opened to tourists in the 19th century by the German poet A. Kopisch. Here, during the heyday of the Roman Empire, was the residence of Emperor Augustus - Villa Gradola. Grotta Azzura gets its name from the fact that the water flowing through the merged limestone caves gives the depression an azure glow due to the reflections of the sun's rays.
The blue grotto amazes with the azure shine of the water
You can swim here on a narrow boat, however, people with tall stature will have to duck.
At the foot of the cave you will be greeted by local sea inhabitants - crabs, lobsters, outlandish fish, as well as two works of art - a monument to Triton and Poseidon.
Once inside the grotto, you can leave a commemorative plaque with your name in the Hall of Names. You can visit the cave every day, starting at 9 am, and sailing from Marina Grande costs 10 euros; by boat with oars - 14 euros;
- Villa Jovis. Villas in Capri are especially popular with tourists. One of the most ancient and distinctive is the Villa of Jupiter (Jovis), which was once the residence of the ruler Tiberius - a follower of Emperor Augustus. Built in the Romanesque style, combined with the serf "design".
Villa Jovis is one of the most ancient and distinctive on the island of Capri
Inside there are three ancient vats, which once collected rainwater for baths of three types: cool, comfortable and hot. It is located on a rocky hill, to climb which you will have to work hard.
Once upon a time, Tiberius used this feature to deal with enemies, throwing them down!
Nowadays, it is the historical value of Italy, which can be visited by paying 2 euros for the entrance. Take advantage of the offer to purchase a card, so it will be more convenient to see the local beauty. In the winter months (November-March) you can get here from 10 am to 2 pm, and in the season from 10 am to 6 pm. And young people who have not celebrated their eighteenth birthday will be admitted absolutely free of charge;
- Villa Malaparte. The unique architectural design of the villa makes it one of the main points on the list of Attractions in Capri, Italy. It is located in the east of the island, on the high rock of Punta Massulo. Designed by renowned architect Adalberto Malaparte, this structure resembles a ship.
Villa Malaparte is located on the high cliff of Punta Massulo
The creator himself was not delighted with his creation, but the imperious Benito Mussolini ordered him to complete the construction. The Italians also call it “A house like me” (Kaza kome mi).
To climb the red brick villa, you have to climb a path of almost 100 steps.
The first floor of the villa includes a solarium, a relaxation room and a hall with a stove, and on the second floor there is a library, bedrooms and baths with marble trim;
- Villa San Michele. Built at the behest of the eminent Swedish doctor Axel Munt, who visited Capri as a young student and fell in love with this wonderful corner. However, the villa was completed only to the old age of the owner, who later bequeathed the construction of his native Sweden. It rises above the azure sea for about 350 meters. After the defeat of the Roman Empire, the surrounding area was buried in the wreckage of Romanesque mythological gods and creatures that physician Munt enthusiastically collected to decorate the villa's interior.
Villa San Michele is like a Greek temple
According to him, his residence should be like a Greek temple. And he kept his word! Now the villa is decorated with the Egyptian sphinx, the head of the Gorgon, the bust of the emperor Tiberius from white marble.
The interior is replete with picturesque frescoes, elaborate mosaics, outlandish pieces of furniture, including a marble table.
Arriving at the villa by bus from Anacapri, you will have to pay 7 euros daily for viewing it from 9 am;
- Anacapri resort. Famous for the aforementioned Villa San Michele, from which a winding cable car leads straight to Mount Salaro. Once here, be sure to visit the local temple of St. Sophia - a wonderful monument of ancient art. For example, the floor of the basilica is made of mosaic elements that tell about the expulsion of sinners Adam and Eve from Paradise.
Temple of Saint Sophia - a wonderful monument of ancient art
You can get to Anacapri by climbing from Marina Grande along the famous Phoenician stairs, which has more than 900 steps;
- City of Capri. Where is Capri? It is also located right on the island of the same name. The majority of local hotels and shops are concentrated on its territory.
Its Piazza Umberto I is a true hub for local shopping. There are numerous cafes, bars and restaurants in abundance here.
The most important local attraction is the Basilica of San Stefano, built in the 17th century in the Baroque style, mixed with the Oriental style. Now only a chapel remains of the once massive structure, where the statue of San Constanzo, cast from pure silver, is kept.
You can admire the sights of the island of Capri by watching the video:
Entertainment
In addition to exploring local attractions, in Capri you will be offered a lot of entertainment for almost every taste:
And also the island of Capri is a place of colorful festivals:
- May 14 here honor the local saint - Constantine, on this occasion, a grandiose holiday is being arranged;
- held here in May sailing regatta;
- in early June, the locals hold a large festival with noisy music and abundant feasts in honor of the patron saint of Anacapri - Anthony;
- at the end of July held swimming competitions;
- then - ethnic song festival;
- 10 whole days of September are dedicated here every year the celebration of the grape harvest, a whole festival is dedicated to this;
- closer to the New Year in Capri is held Film Festival;
- in myself New Year the whole city fireworks at La Piazzetta.
Capri beaches
Most of them are covered with pebbles, differing from the rest of the beaches in Italy.
There are both beaches where you can sunbathe absolutely free of charge, as well as private paid beaches, which have everything you need for a comfortable stay: umbrellas, sun loungers, showers, cafes.
Capri beaches beckon tourists with sun and warm sea
The best beaches according to tourists' reviews:
- Marina Grande- beach, partly composed of sand;
- Faro beach, which is an almost flat surface of stone, serves as an excellent observation point to the wonderful surroundings;
- A place on a rocky beach La Fontelina it is better to book in advance, as it is very popular with tourists due to the restaurant located there, where you can taste delicious local cuisine;
- And if you are a lover of solitude and tranquility, then it will suit you La Giola beach, in the restaurant where you can enjoy excellent seafood dishes;
- Suitable for tourists with children Bagni de Tiberio beach;
- And a 15-minute leisurely walk from the town of Anacapri is the beach Lido del Faro, famous for its comfortable pool and relaxation terraces located directly in the rocks.
The best hotels
Here are some of the most preferred hotels according to travel reviews:
Capri cuisine
Be sure to try the local Limoncello liqueur made at the local distillery. In addition, Capri is famous for its delicious cheeses such as Provolone, Mozzarella, Silano. It is customary here to cook a variety of chestnuts, for example, sugar-coated chestnuts, called Rocadaspido.
The island of Capri is very fond of chestnuts.
Be sure to visit local restaurants, where you will be fed delicious Mediterranean dishes:
How to get there
From rome
If you are coming from Rome, it is best, having arrived from the airport, to get to Termini station and take the Leonardo Express train leading to Naples. From here you will have to sail to the island on a local boat:
- Eurostar Freccia Rossa- he will get to Naples the fastest, for a ticket you will have to pay 40 euros;
- Intercity: the trip costing 20 euros will last about 2 hours;
- Interegionali: in 4 hours you can get to Naples, paying only 10 euros.
Tickets can be purchased both through Trenitalia on the Internet and at local train stations.
From Naples
If the center of departure is the city of Naples, then you can get to Capri in two ways:
- By sea from ports:
- Marina Beverello;
- Calata di Massa. The ferry ride time is from 50 to 80 minutes, by boat - about 40 minutes;
- By bus from Naples, you can take the Alibus bus, which stops near the first terminal. You can buy a ticket from the driver for about 3 euros, and after leaving the fence of Terminal 1, you can catch a taxi, the cost of the trip is 22 euros.
It is not recommended to take a ride that is not an official taxi.
In conclusion, it remains to add that tours to the paradise of the Land of Capri are sold all year round, due to the magnificent mild climate almost at any time of the year, the huge number of local beautiful architectural monuments and the unique splendor of the local landscape.
Capri - a paradise for a great holiday
Coming to Capri on vacation, you will surely be delighted with this distinctive place and, like the Swede Axel Munt, you will want to settle here forever.
Hello dear readers. The island of Capri is one of the most romantic places in the Gulf of Naples, it is especially noticed by newly arrived tourists, for whom the most important question is how to spend time here with the greatest benefit and what can you see on the island of Capri.
If you want to take a close look at all the sights, you need to be patient and have comfortable shoes. Because walking is the ideal way to explore the island and admire its natural beauty, in the form of crystal clear sea and rocky shores.
Alternatively, in order to get anywhere in Capri, you can always use the services of taxis, small buses and funiculars.
In summer, excursions to the island of Capri from the coast and Positano () are very popular. But in July and August it is very hot, and there are so many tourists that this route can become very tiring, so it is worthwhile to calculate your strength in advance and think about whether you can see Capri and its main attractions in one day.
On hot days, early morning or late evening is the best option to visit the island.
Where to stay in Capri
The island of Capri has a large number of small hotels, B&B and apartments for every budget. But in high season prices can be very high, especially for large expensive hotels. The main criteria affecting the price of hotels are panoramic views and walking distance from the main attractions. I would like to say that the room rates are really so diverse that everyone can choose what they like.
I suggest that you familiarize yourself with the prices for hotels on the island of Capri, or you can simply compare prices and book a room in the future:
From the port of Marina Grande you can buy a ticket for a land or boat tour of the island. The boat excursion will undoubtedly include visits to the Blue Grotto and Faraglioni. On average, such a walk lasts about 2 hours and costs 10.00 - 20.00 €.
For tourists who have only one day to see Capri, I suggest that you familiarize yourself with a quick guide and a few of the most popular attractions.
Faraglioni Capri
Faraglioni can be called one of the symbols of Capri. They are three large boulders rising out of the water, which are located in the immediate vicinity of the island, but you can only get to them by boat or boat. The height of one of the rocks is 109 meters, and the smallest has an arch through which sailboats can easily sail.
Local residents claim that those who swim through the arch will be lucky... In ancient times, fires were kindled on these stones, which served as a kind of beacon for sailors. No tourist leaves Capri without taking at least one photo of Faraglioni. Each rock has a name: the highest is the Star (Stella), the smallest with an arch is Faraglione di Mezzo, the third is Faraglione di Fuori.
Capri's Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)
The Blue Grotto is one of the most popular attractions to see in Capri. Due to the narrow entrance and small height (1 meter), the visit to the grotto is possible only with a small boat. But inside it is quite spacious. The main feature of such water caves is the unusually azure water, hence the name itself.
Many do not miss the opportunity to swim in the purest water and feed the fish that live here, but this is not appropriate in the high season. In the summer, during the high season, there are a lot of people who want to visit the blue grotto, so you will most likely have to wait a long time for your turn, so do not forget to bring sunscreen and a hat with you.
Staying inside the cave will last about 5 minutes. The entrance to the cave is paid, its cost will be 13.00 € (payment for the boatman's services is not included here), payment is made immediately before the entrance, to the floating ticket office. Working hours grotto from 9:00 to 17:00. It is not recommended to visit the cave on cloudy, not sunny days, since the color of the water on such days is significantly different. Visiting is prohibited during rain and wind.
Monte Solaro in Capri (Monte Solaro)
With a height of 589 meters, Monte Solaro is the perfect place to see the entire island in all its glory from the highest point of Capri, also overlooking the Gulf of Naples and the city of Salerno. On the mountain you can see all the beauty of the Mediterranean flora and fauna, there are also many attractions that are definitely worth seeing.
Just below the highest point is the La zona di Cetrella area where you can see medieval chapel and a church that served as a spiritual retreat for the Franciscan monks. Another local attraction is the ruins of the castle of Barbarossa (Il Castello di Barbarossa).
The best time to visit Monte Solaro is spring. From the port of Marina Grande there is a bus to Anacapri, and it is from there that you can take the funicular to Mount Solaro, the whole journey will take just over 10 minutes, while the walk will last about an hour.
It should be remembered that cable car open in summer from 9:30 to 17:00, in winter from 9:30 to 15:30. The price of a lift ticket is 10.00 € (ascent and descent), 7.00 € (only ascent). The main note is that you should not go up the mountain with small children in your arms and animals, although the chairs on the cable car are equipped with seat belts, they are still single.
Another stunning must-see on the island of Capri is Villa Jovis, built in the first century. The building represents the ruins of a classical, ancient Roman fortress, which has been well preserved to this day. Villa Jovis was discovered in the 18th century during the reign of Carl Bourbon.
Many exhibits found here and of historical value are kept in the halls of the Archaeological Museum of Naples and in the church of Santo Stefano on the island of Capri. The entrance to the ruins of Villa Jovis is paid - 2.00 €. Opening hours: in summer from 10:00 to 18:00, in winter from 10:00 to 16:00. A ticket for the Funicular from Capri to Villa Jovis costs 1.80 €.
Villa San Michele
The villa is the home of the Swedish doctor and writer Axel Munte, who built it 320 meters above sea level, on the site where the Church of San Michele and the Roman imperial villa used to be. And now anyone can see this attraction on the island of Capri on their own.
Munte devoted most of his life to the improvement of the villa and garden. Over the years, he has collected a collection of valuable artifacts, some of the most important are the head of a medusa that adorned the Temple of Venus in Rome, a bust of Emperor Tiberius and the Egyptian Sphinx.
Also in the house there is valuable rare furniture 18th century paintings and Roman sculptures. They say if you put your left hand on the sphinx and make a wish, it will definitely come true. In the garden you can see a variety of plants and trees typical of the Mediterranean. And of course, a beautiful view of the Gulf of Naples opens from here. The museum is open daily, the ticket price is 7.00 €.
La Piazzetta
Piazza Umberto I is considered the heart of the city of Capri and is known throughout the world as "Piazzetta". This is the main place for walking and meeting, it is here that there is a wonderful cafe where you can chat with friends, have a cup of Italian coffee and admire the views from the terrace. Coffee here is quite expensive 4 - 5 € per cup, a cocktail will cost more than 10 €.
As a rule, the Piazzetta is always crowded with tourists in summer. Square symbol there is no doubt a small but very original bell tower, the bells of which ring every 15 minutes.
Anacapri
Anacapri is a city located on an island. Getting there is as easy as shelling pears, by bus from Marina Grande or by funicular to the city of Capri and then by bus to Anacapri, the journey will take 10 minutes, in summer buses leave every 15 minutes.
Unlike the city of Capri, Anacapri center calmer and wider. It is here on Victoria Square that buses stop, where there is a funicular nearby where you can climb Mount Solaro or along Via Pagliaro you can walk to the Blue Grotto.
In Anacapri there is a very beautiful church built in the Baroque style, the Temple of San Michele Arcangelo. Another attraction worth visiting is the Red House, formerly owned by an American colonel, today the house is a museum. It houses a permanent exhibition of paintings depicting the life of the island, as well as archaeological finds from Grotta Azzurra.
Capri beaches
The island of Capri is very unique and diverse, with both sandy beaches and rocky coves. The main features are the cleanest coast and azure water. The island has both free and paid beaches, equipped with everything you need - umbrellas, showers, bars and restaurants.
The largest beach on the island is located near the port of Marina Grande.It is a rocky bay with a gorgeous view and blue sea.
(Capri) is comfortably located in (Golfo di Napoli) and has always been synonymous with luxury and luxury holidays. But everything can be different: here we will tell you about the things on which you will not need to throw a lot of money. The proximity of Capri to and makes the island a very convenient place to spend at least one day. From the mythical High Cliffs (Faraglioni) to the Azure Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), from the elite Piazzetta to the villa dell'Imperatore Tiberio - take in the best that can give island of capri.
The High Rocks are one of the symbols. This is the name of the three massive rocks near the island, which can be reached by boat.
The highest is 109 meters, and in the central one there is a grotto in which you can swim.
Each of the three rocks bears its own name. The closest to the island is called Saetta, the middle one is Scopolo. Scopolo (as well as the top of Mount Solaro) is home to the rarest Blue Lizard, which belongs to the family of common lizards, but has acquired a blue color to match the sea and sky of Capri due to its isolation.
Azure Grotto Capri
The famous Azure Grotto of Capri has been known since the time of Emperor Tiberius, who built a road to it from his villa.
The waters of incredible azure color brought him fame and name: in good weather it seems as if the water in the sea is illuminated from the inside, and you can see myriads of silvery fish. You can get inside by a small boat that can accommodate no more than 4 people. The height of the entrance is only one meter, therefore, when swimming inside the cave, you need to bend down strongly. At the entrance to the grotto, especially during peak season, you can sometimes wait an hour, waiting for your turn: you will be offered sunscreen, a hat and water. The boat tour lasts about 5 minutes, but swimming and diving inside is prohibited.
Mount Solaro in Capri
Mount Solaro, 589 meters high, is the ideal place to enjoy views of the island at its foot and out to distant Naples and Salerno across a strip of dazzling sea.
Many species of birds nest here, including the pilgrim falcon, and in general, the island disposes to admire the typical Mediterranean flora and fauna.
The best time for this is spring, when the air is filled with the aromas of freesia and wisteria. On the mountain, it is worth visiting the Skete of St. Mary (Eremo di Santa Maria) - in the past a place of seclusion of monks, the fortress of Barbarossa, built presumably in the 11th century. and withstood the siege of the Turkish admiral Cairo ad-din in 1535.
Villa Jovis in Capri
Villa Jovis was dedicated to Jupiter by Emperor Tiberius - it is one of the brightest examples of Roman architecture preserved on the Mediterranean coast. This is not the only villa built by the emperor in Capri, but definitely one of the finest - 7 sq. km on a promontory at the eastern end of the island.
From here overlooks Ischia and Procida, the Gulf of Salerno and the Cilento coast. The villa was built in the 1st century. and the emperor spent 12 years there, controlling the fate of the Empire from the island.
Today there is an opportunity to visit what is left of it: in the center there are large reservoirs for rainwater, and around - a series of buildings - for the emperor, army and servants, as well as the throne room. The villa was plundered during the Bourbon era and rebuilt in 1932 thanks to the intervention of Amedeo Mayuri, director of the Naples Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico di Napoli).
Capri Square
Piazza Umberto I is the center of Capri's social life, better known simply as the Square.
People come here to drink coffee, chat and admire the gorgeous panorama from the terrace. Until the end of the last century, there were market stalls on the square, and now it is a symbol of luxurious life, where the cream of the city's society and tourists gather at tables on the cobblestone pavement.
The main streets diverge from the Square and one of them - Camerelle - is replete with boutiques of the world's most famous brands. Take a break in the Piazza and visit the Centro Caprense Ignazio Cerio, a small museum that houses about 20,000 archaeological finds on the island.
Anacapri
At the foot of Mount Solaro, 15 minutes by bus from Piazza, Anacapri is located - the largest commune on the island, a whirlwind of colorful streets and alleys, squares and beaches.
It is from here that the cable car goes to the top of Mount Solaro, and Via Pagliaro leads to the Azure Grotto. If you love wildlife and want to see a magnificent picture of the sun setting into the sea, you need to climb Cape Carena and its famous Lighthouse (Faro), the highest in Italy after the Genoese.
Also in Anacapri there is one of the most beautiful churches in the Neapolitan Baroque style - the Church of St. Michael the Archangel (Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo), where the floor is tiled with glazed tiles depicting the expulsion of Adam and Eve from Paradise. Another attraction not to be missed is the Red House (Casa Rossa), the former home of American Colonel John Macovene. Now there are collected canvases depicting island of capri and Anacapri, written in the 19-20 century, as well as archaeological finds from the Azure grotto.
Island of Capri - beaches
It is quite rocky and there are no large sandy beaches, but there are many ledges from which it is good to dive into the enchanting transparent depths of blue-green color. Capri has both wild beaches and equipped ones - with umbrellas, sun loungers, showers, bars and restaurants.
In the port area, Marina Grande, the largest beach on the island is opened in a rocky bay. There is a wild and equipped area here. At the opposite end of the island is Marina Piccola, which can be reached on foot or by bus. Lovers of delightful sunsets should visit the Lighthouse area.
Sightseeing tour around Capri
The best way to enjoy the beauty of the island is to take a boat tour around the island. They pass quite often, lasting an hour or two. Most of them include a stop at the Azure Grotto (for a fee). The sailing starts from Marina Grande and takes us clockwise, passing the most important points like Villa Jovis and the High Cliffs. Naturally, all this time, the unique beauty landscapes of lush vegetation and dazzling rocks will not escape your gaze.
What to try in Capri
Speaking of Capri, one cannot fail to mention the essential products of the island: tomatoes, mozzarella, olive oil, salt, origano, basil. Capri's cuisine is simple yet unforgettable. Capri homemade ravioli with cheese and marjoram, linguine with fish sauce, lots of fish and seafood like squid with potatoes and mussel soup, and Capri almond and cocoa pie and Limoncello liqueur.
Where to spend the night in Capri
Of course, island of capri has the fame of not being the cheapest island, but in the off-season in small hotels on the bed and breakfast system, you can spend the night at reasonable prices. It is clear that during the peak season and in expensive hotels, prices are frighteningly high. Prices are also influenced by the view from the windows and the proximity to the secular places of the island (Squares, shopping streets). But overall the choice is great: prices start at around 90 euros per night for a double room with breakfast included.
Vladimir Dergachev
Ivan Aivazovsky Moonlit Night on Capri (1841).
Capri island(14 thousand inhabitants) - a world famous seaside resort with a mild subtropical climate. It is located in the southern part of the Gulf of Naples, about 10 km southwest of the tip of Cape Campanella on the Sorrentine Peninsula, and is part of the Italian province of Naples in the Campania region. Capri is one of the world symbols of Italy, full of historical memory.
The name of the island may come from the Latin caprea - "goat island" or the ancient Greek κάπρος - "wild boar".
A relatively small island with an area of 10.4 sq. km (3 by 6 km) from the very high point Monto Solaro (589 meters) is composed mainly of limestone. Its steep banks abound with natural arches and caves. Dolomite rocks give the island extraordinary beauty against the backdrop of an endless emerald sea.
The island's only port, Marina Grande, is located on the northern coast, from where you can climb the mountain serpentine or cable car to the city center. On the south coast is the small harbor Marina Piccola.
In the main town Capri is home to the majority of the resident population of the island, and in the inland Anacapri there are many rich villas. 
Presumably, the first settlers of Capri were experienced navigators (Tafians), who discovered the island in the 8th century BC. NS. From 330 BC NS. Capri became a province of Naples with two warring island tribal communities - Capri and Anacapri. In 29 BC. NS. Emperor Augustus acquired the island, donating Ischia to the Neapolitans as compensation. The first villa on the island was built by his order.
Emperor Tiberius owned the island from 27 to 37 years, when the port was built and twelve villas were built. Due to the increase in population, fresh water reservoirs and a warning system for approaching pirates have been created. Already in that era, Capri acquired the fame of the island of "beautiful doing nothing" for the Roman nobility.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Duchy of Naples ruled the island. Starting from the 6th century, the island began to be subjected to devastating raids by the Saracens (eastern pirates), who drove the local population into slavery. Capri became a staging post for pirates for further raids on the coast of southern Europe.
After successful military operations against the Saracens, King Louis II (825 - 879) donates the island to the principality of Amalfi in gratitude for the support of military and diplomatic actions against the Arabs. Then the island was owned by the Lombards, Normans, the Angevin dynasty and the Aragonese. From 1513 to 1546, the Mediterranean, including Capri, became the target of numerous attacks by the Ottoman fleet led by Hayr ad-Din Barbarossa. A period of Spanish rule followed, followed by the Bourbon dynasty, then by the French Napoleonic occupation (1806 - 1815).
By the beginning of the 19th century, Capri was already famous throughout Europe as one of the most exotic holiday destinations in the Mediterranean for tycoons and ... the mafia, and then the Bolshevik leaders. Modern dear Capri has become a whim of nature, visited by wealthy citizens who can afford any whim.
Today the local population is employed in tourism, subtropical agriculture, horticulture and fishing. Connections with land are by ferry and private boats.
Main attractions... On the north coast of Capri is the Blue Grotto. This natural depression in the rock (60 x 25 meters) is illuminated by the sun's rays coming from a crevice under the water, with an entrance height of only one meter. Due to the unexpected effect of the underwater window, emitting a bright beam of sunlight, the traveler who gets here seems to be floating in the air. Sea water absorbs the red range of light, so its blue color is saturated. For centuries sailors considered the grotto to be a place of demons or an ancient sanctuary. This miracle of nature is sung in Aivazovsky's painting "Azure Grotto".
Villa San Michele, turned into an archaeological museum, was built at the end of the 19th century. Its round alley offers a unique view of the Gulf of Naples. The Blue Grotto and Villa San Michele are both the main tourist attractions of the island of Capri.
Another local gem - Faraglioni... These three reefs are almost a hundred-meter high obelisks that rise above the depths of the sea. In the middle reef, a natural arch has formed, through which you can safely swim.
Jupiter's Villa- the largest of the 12 villas built by Emperor Tiberius on the hills of Monte Tiberio in the eastern part of the island. Its terraced location is dictated by the rocky relief. It was here that rainwater reservoirs were first created. It offers panoramic views of Ischia, the Gulf of Naples and Salerno. 
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Mount Monte Solaro(589 m) is the highest point on the island with magnificent views. You can climb by cable car from Anacapri or on foot. From its top, a view of Naples, the bay and the southern tip of the Apennines opens. You can climb the mountain by the "Phoenician Stairs", presumably dating back to the 7th-6th centuries BC. NS.
From the park (Gardens of Augustus), Via Krupp begins, one of the most spectacular streets in the world: it is a very narrow serpentine that covers a slope of about 100 meters. 
Capri. A sweet life for the comfortable life of celebrities and fiery revolutionaries. The beauty of the island is impressive, as is the salubrious sea air. It is not for nothing that politicians, the European elite, Russian artists, musicians, writers and poets, along with the French Mediterranean coast, loved this luxurious resort. As the great proletarian writer Maxim Gorky summed up: "You get drunk here, you go crazy and you can't do anything." Many celebrities have visited the island, including:
Bohemia has chosen Capri in search of an ideal place to live. But among the celebrities, the proletarian writer Maxim Gorky stands out. In January 1906, being a famous writer, on behalf of Vladimir Ulyanov (Lenin), he went through Finland, Sweden, Germany, Switzerland and France to America to raise funds for the party's fund. He was accompanied by his common-law wife, actress Maria Andreeva and bodyguard Nikolai Burenin. Having visited New York, Boston and Philadelphia, the writer collected a considerable sum for those times and settled on Staten Island at the mouth of the Hudson in the estate of American patrons, where he began to write the famous novel "Mother". However, soon a scandal arose in the American press on the topic of Gorky's bigamy, and he had to hastily return to Russia, but in October 1906 he left for emigration to Italy. At the pier in Naples, Gorky was greeted by a crowd of Italians, for whom the writer was a hero in the spirit of Garibaldi, who miraculously escaped the tsarist regime. Gorky chose the picturesque and secluded island of Capri as his place of residence.
On the island, the writer enjoyed unprecedented respect and adoration of the locals. “Massimo,” as the Italians called him, took root on the island so that a street was named after him, and since 2009 a literary prize named after the great writer has been established in Capri.
A narrow pedestrian picturesque street has survived, on which the villa of A.M. Gorky Il Sorrito, where he lived for two years from March 1909 to February 1911, was treated for consumption and founded a party school. At the invitation of the writer, Lenin came to him twice. Now there is a memorial plaque here.
As a result, Gorky lived abroad for a total of more than 18 years, of which 15 years in Italy. It is interesting that during this time he did not master any foreign language, having learned only one phrase in Italian - “buona sera” (“good evening”).
Gorky stayed in Capri for seven years. Gorky and Andreeva first settled in the famous hotel Quisisana ("Quisisana"), where his great friend Fyodor Chaliapin also lived. Today, formed in 1845 Grand Hotel Quisisana 5 * (150 rooms), thrives and is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. In November 1906, Gorky settled in the Villa Blaise, famous for its excellent location, which was located in one of the most beautiful places on Capri (today the Villa Krupp hotel is located here). The terrace offered an amazing view of the sea and the Marina Piccola bay. Then Gorky lived in the Villa Herculaneum (also known as Villa Spinola and owned by the German bacteriologist Emil von Bering). These places have become a kind of cult. Here the writer was visited by numerous famous compatriots - from the future Nobel Prize winner Ivan Bunin to the theater reformer Konstantin Stanislavsky. Gorky was visited by many other guests from Russia: Chaliapin, Novikov-Priboy, Leonid Andreev, Lunacharsky, Dzerzhinsky and many others. Gorky was a very hospitable host: “Come,” he wrote to the artist Vasily Katchalov, “we will swim in the blue sea, catch sharks, drink white and red Capri and live in general… You will have a wonderful rest…”.
The villa of the Nobel laureate in the field of medicine Emil Bering (burgundy), where Gorky lived in 1906-1913. 
Photo by Anton Dergachev
Twice, in 1908 and 1910, Vladimir Ulyanov (Lenin) came to Capri, including with his mistress Inessa Armand. Indeed, his wife Nadezhda Krupskaya did not harmonize with the Neapolitan landscapes. Another thing is the harsh beauty of Siberia, where the future leader of the world proletariat wrote out Nadezhda Krupskaya from St. Petersburg.
At the villa on the island of Capri, under the leadership of Gorky and with the active participation of Andreeva, the Higher School of Propagandists was founded. Bogdanov and Lunacharsky took part in the creation of the party school of the RSDLP. And Lenin combined his vacation in Capri with the struggle against the "heresy" in the party school, where classes were not conducted entirely "according to Ilyich." Probably played a role and vindictiveness Ulyanov, who saw in Bogdanov a rival in the party career. Alexander Bogdanov was previously called the vice-leader of the Bolsheviks. In the summer of 1906, Lenin, having read the book Empirio-Monism, just written by Bogdanov, by his own admission, “became extremely angry and furious.” Disagreements over control of the Bolshevik treasury were especially aggravated, and in June 1909, at a meeting of the expanded editorial board of the Proletary newspaper, Bogdanov was expelled from the Bolshevik Center, and then in January 1910 at the Paris Plenum he was expelled from the Central Committee of the RSDLP.
Vladimir Ulyanov, visiting Maxim Gorky, plays chess with Alexander Bogdanov. The photo was taken by the twenty-year-old son of actress Maria Andreeva and Gorky's stepson Yuri Zhelyabuzhsky, who became a major Soviet cameraman, director and screenwriter. 
The future leader of the world proletariat demonstrates to Italian fishermen a master class on how to fish correctly - in a white shirt with a tie and bare bald head under the burning Mediterranean sun. Vesuvius volcano is visible at the top left.
Painting by Efim Cheptsov "Lenin and Gorky with the fishermen on Capri" (1931). 
Capri is an island in the southern Tyrrhenian Sea. This seaside resort, as it was popular during the times of the Roman Republic, has remained famous place in Italy for a seaside holiday.
There are several variants of the origin of the name of the island: the first version is from lat. Caprae - goat island, the second version from the Greek. Caprios is a wild pig (the facts of the colonization of the island by the ancient Greeks are confirmed by excavations). According to Homer's "Odyssey", it was in these parts that sirens lived, luring sailors with their singing and forcing them to turn their ships onto deadly reefs. The area of the island is approximately 10 km 2. The island has two main settlements- Capri and Anacapri, which are home to 15 thousand people. The highest point of the island is Mount Monte Solaro, 589m high.
Capri is the only island in the Gulf of Naples that is not of volcanic origin, but formed by a huge limestone rock, which over time gave Capri its present relief.
The climate on the island is warm and mild, the weather on the island is excellent all year round, there is little rainfall.
There is no winter on the island, and in summer the heat is balanced by a breeze that brings the damp coolness of the sea.
The island is ideal for people with lung diseases. Man fancifully diluted the wild flora of the island with vineyards, citrus fruits and olives.
More than 2000 years ago, the Emperor Octavian Augustus idolized Capri, exchanging for it a richer one, which was used for medicinal springs, which were highly valued by the Romans. But Augustus appreciated more the Caprian silence, detachment from the outside world, politics, work, gossip. For these virtues, Augustus called Capri a paradise of idleness. The beauty of these places and isolation from the mainland made it possible to spend time on two activities - relaxation and philosophy.
Capri is a high service resort these days. There are about 60 hotels on the small territory of the two towns of the island.
The cost of rooms in hotels also depends on the season and fluctuates mainly within 100-700 euros per day per room.
Budget special offers rarely happen and it becomes possible to rent an ordinary double room for 40 euros per night with breakfast. To find the one that suits you, we recommend using Booking.com or the alternative super search below:
Capri is administratively part of the Campania region of central Italy. The Campania region is renowned for its amazing cuisine, which differs from the gastronomy of other regions. Campania is the birthplace of pizza.
Traditional island cuisine
Capri's cuisine is traditionally Campanian, besides pizza, it can offer ice-cream, unique Italian, sausages, cottage cheese from buffalo milk, artichokes, candied chestnuts.
In the cellars of Capri restaurants, wines of a century are kept.
The island of Capri can be considered the birthplace of the second most popular drink in Italy after (Campari). This is a lemon liqueur that is produced using the lemon peel infusion method, and most of the alcoholic lemon drinks use the distillation method.
Limoncello is infused for 3 to 5 days, then the alcohol and sugar content is adjusted to the required proportions and placed in special machines for emulsification.
The drink is rich in vitamin C and has a natural bright yellow color and lemon flavor notes. Limoncello di Capri is one of the island's specialties.
The island can be easily reached by ferry or boat to one of the two harbors of Marina Grande or Marina Piccola.
Transport links are regularly carried out from the ports of Naples and Sorrento.
The coastline is heavily indented along its main length and consists of jagged steep cliffs with grottoes, bays, gorges and reefs protruding from the water. Therefore, there are no large sandy beaches in Capri, but pebble beaches are available in many coves. Most of the beaches are equipped with special platforms and stairs to descend to the sea. The most popular beaches are in Marina Piccola, near the Blue Grotto and the Faraglioni Rocks
Transport
Transport on the island, due to its small size, is not diverse, its representatives are minibuses and taxis. A minibus ticket costs 1 euro.
However, the most popular means of transport in Capri is the boats that take you around the island.
From the port of Marina Grande to Piazza Umberto (Piazzetta), you can get there by the 1907 funicular. The length of the funicular route is 650m. Piazza Umberto with the narrow streets surrounding it is the most expensive vacation spot on the island. A glass of Coca-Cola, for example, costs 5 euros here, and a traditional tramedin sandwich can be bought for 12 euros.
Capri landmarks
Since the island was popular in ancient times, there are a lot of attractions on it. Near the port of Marina Grande are the ruins of the Naval Palace of Emperor Augustus (Palazzo al Mare). A little lower, the successor to Augustus Tiberius built his Baths (Bagni di Tiberio), also Tiberius erected twelve villas, the most famous of which Jupiter's Villa.
This is the largest villa among the villas built by the emperor. Villa Jupiter is located on the hills of Monte Tiberio. For the first time, reservoirs for rainwater were built here, which later began to be supplied to supply the towns. Tiberius spent his last ten years of his life and reign in Capri in this villa. Villa Jupiter is relatively well preserved, allowing tourists to appreciate the beauty of 1st century Roman architecture.
Villa Malaparte
On Cape Massulo, in splendid isolation, stands Villa Malaparte... The building was built in 1938-1949 by the Italian writer and journalist Curzio Malaparte.
The building is a two-storey red house, austere in style. A wide staircase leads to the building covered with a flat roof. At the villa were filmed the films "Contempt" by Jean-Luc Godard (1963), with Brigitte Bardot in the title role, and "The Skin" by Liliana Cavani (1981), where he performed the main role.
Cave of the Great Mother
In the bowels of Mount Tuoro lies the cave of the Great Mother. The cave was intended for Cybele, which was not part of the pantheon of the gods of Ancient Rome.
The cult of the goddess of eastern origin in the territory of the Roman Empire appeared in 204 BC. according to the behest of the Seville oracle, historians believe, for the expulsion of Hannibal from Italy. The Romans turned the cave into a cult place, the walls are decorated with mosaics, shells and colored plaster. Today, only a few traces of ancient art remain in the cave.
Faraglioni rocks
On both sides of Calle Matteotti, there is a park called the Gardens of the Emperor Augustus. It is a Capri style botanical garden with many terraces. This is a good place for those who like to walk in the shady coolness. From the park you can admire one of Capri's business cards - Faraglioni rocks.
These are three high sea cliffs. The nearest rock is Stella or Faraglione di Terra, 109m high, connected to the island by a bridge. The middle rock of Mezzo, 82 m high, is a natural arch, under which a boat can freely sail. The distant rock of Faraglione di Fuori or Scopolo, 104 m high, is famous for the fact that it is home to the "blue lizard" - one of the rarest species of reptiles.
Find a hotel on the island of CapriPhoenician stairs
Tourists who are not afraid of physical activity are advised to walk along the Phoenician stairs (Scala fenicia), which connects Capri and Anacapri. The steps of the stairs in the amount of 921 pieces were carved into the rock in the 6th-7th centuries BC. The staircase collapsed in 1874, but was rebuilt in 1998.
Having overcome the distance of 1.7 km along the Phoenician stairs, you can get to the Chapel of St. Anthony, which is located approximately in the middle between Capri and Anacapri.
Church of San Michele
In the historic center of Anacapri, you can see the Church of San Michele, dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel. The church was built in the 17th-18th centuries in the style and was an integral part of the Teresian monastery.
The building is characterized by its octahedral dome and rich interior decoration: frescoes, stone sculptural elements, a large amount of multi-colored marble decorating the interior. Most of all, the church is famous for its floor, on which scenes of the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden were laid with majolica tiles in 1761. The side altars contain paintings by Paolo de Matteis, Nicola Malincolico and Po.
Monastery of San Giacomo
Not far from Piazzetta in the city of Capri is the monastery of San Giacomo. The monastery was built in the period 1363-1371 with the money of Queen Giovanna I of Naples under the strict guidance of Count Giacomo Arcucci. At the end of the construction, the count was about to get a haircut, but there was a coup d'etat, the Anjou dynasty came to power, and the count and the queen were killed.
For almost two hundred years the monastery stood and did not know grief. But in the 16th century, it was plundered by the troops of the pirate Dragut. The halls were partially destroyed, and the interior was mostly removed. After that, the monastery was restored at the expense of local residents. In 1690, a plague epidemic hit the island. The monks, hiding behind the walls of the monastery, refused shelter to local residents. For a long time, the monasteries on the island were treated extremely negatively. Today the Monastery of San Giacomo is open to all visitors, and open-air concerts are held in the courtyard. And in the building of the monastery itself there is a museum of the German artist Diefenbach, who lived and worked in Capri for the last 13 years of his life.
Blue Grotto
On the north coast of Capri is the most popular attraction that has become the emblem of the island - the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra).
It is famous all over the world for the magical azure color of the water. This color is given to the water by the sun's rays penetrating through the small opening of the entrance. Researchers suggest that in ancient times this place was a sacred grotto of sea nymphs. You can only get inside the grotto by a small rowing boat lying along the bottom. The entrance is a small passage in the rock 2m wide and a little over 1m high. When the northwest or southwest wind rises, it is not possible to get to the Blue Grotto.
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