We visited the Isle of Capri while we were staying in Naples. Capri is a beautiful island and a visit to Villa Jovis was the main attraction for us. As a result, it would be an excellent historical tour and also very scenic. Additionally, the weather could not have been better for photos and sightseeing.
Ferry transport to the Isle of Capri from Naples is simple and inexpensive. The trip is only about 1.5 hours each way. As a result, it makes an ideal day trip. Unfortunately, we arrived early to find Villa Jovis closed. However, we were able to hop over the fence!
Walking Directions from Marina Grande
When you arrive at Marina Grande on the Isle of Capri you can get a Villa Jovis map at the tourist office in the main square. Additionally, they can point you in the right direction and when you are on the right street, you just go 2 kilometers straight to the top.
Since the walk is uphill most of the way it is slightly taxing. Furthermore, the villa covers about 1.7 acres or 7000 sq meters and there is a variation in elevation of about 40 meters. But nothing too serious!
The Basic Facts About Villa Jovis
The Emperor Tiberius Claudius Nero ruled the Roman Empire from 14 A.C.E to 37 A.C.E. Tiberius was an experienced general and politician. Therefore, under his tenure Rome remained strong militarily and economically.
However, Tiberius was not comfortable in the public spotlight of Rome. As a result, he decided to relocate to the Isle of Capri. This is because assassination and political maneuvering were a growing threat. Ironically, the main threat was from his own wickedly powerful mother, Livia Drusilla.
For Tiberius, the seclusion and security of the island was ideal. Villa Jovis was located on the top of Mt Tiberius (334m) on the northern end of Capri. The towering cliffs on that end of the island protected the villa from intruders. Additionally, the jagged rocks and the Gulf of Naples lie far below.
Construction of Villa Jovis was completed in 27 A.C.E. As a result, Tiberius would rule the empire from there for 10 years until his death in 37 A.C.E.
Salacious Rumors About Villa Jovis
Rumors swirl around Villa Jovis concerning the salacious inclinations of the Emperor Tiberius. Apparently, the secluded location facilitated the unbridled sexual depravity of Tiberius. However, these accounts are mainly attributed to one ancient historian named Suetonius.
Due to political intrigue it is best to remain open minded about the emperor’s personal character. However, it can be noted that Tiberius was the mentor of his successor Caligula. Unfortunately, history leaves little doubt about the depraved mental state of Caligula.
In addition to sexual depravity, Tiberius was alleged to be ruthless and bloodthirsty. Therefore, he would have undesirable guests and servants tossed from the cliffs to meet their grisly deaths on the rocks below.
The location of these alleged executions was at the southeast end of Villa Jovis at “Salto Di Tiberio” in Italian or “Tiberius leap” in English.
Additional Attractions From Villa Jovis
We decided to visit the grottoes and also the Arco Naturale on the way back. As a result, the walk back was more strenuous than the way in, but well worth the effort.
The day trip to Capri and Villa Jovis was excellent and it should be included in all visits to Naples. After the strenuous hike back into town we caught the bus to Anacapri for lunch and then returned to the ferry terminal in the evening.
