Villa Jovis

Capri, Italy

Villa Jovis is a Roman palace on Capri, southern Italy, built by emperor Tiberius and completed in AD 27. Tiberius mainly ruled from there until his death in AD 37.

Villa Jovis is the largest of the twelve Tiberian villas on Capri mentioned by Tacitus. The entire complex, spanning several terraces and a difference in elevation of about 40 m, covers some 7,000 m² (1.7 acres). While the remaining eight levels of walls and staircases only hint at the grandeur the building must have had in its time, recent reconstructions have shown the villa to be a remarkable testament to 1st-century Roman architecture.

The north wing of the building contained the living quarters, while the south wing saw administrative use. The east wing was meant for receptions, whereas the west wing featured an open-walled hall (ambulatio) which offered a scenic view towards Anacapri.

As water was difficult to come by where the villa was built, Roman engineers constructed an intricate system for the collection of rainwater from the roofs and a large cistern that supplied the palace with fresh water.

South of the main building there are remains of a watch tower (specula) for the quick telegraphic exchange of messages with the mainland, e.g. by fire or smoke.

Access to the complex is only possible on foot, and involves an uphill walk of about two kilometres from Capri town.

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Address

Via Tiberio 79, Capri, Italy
See all sites in Capri

Details

Founded: 27 AD
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Italy

Rating

4.3/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Ashley Mead (7 months ago)
Highlight of Capri. 2000 years of history. Spectacular views and a beautiful walk 25 minutes from Capri main town.
Tessie Wallace (11 months ago)
Views are stunning from here! A very long hike to get here though! Took us about an hour, but we’re old :) €6 entrance fee is a bit much especially since you can’t get to most of the ruins anymore. Still interesting ruins however. Also stopped at the park near the villa for more stunning views! The hike to and from the villa was a great part!
JP (2 years ago)
The trek here was a bit of a challenge (It's the second highest point in Capri) due to how steep the sidewalk is. It can get quite hot so hydrate and take a hat and sunscreen if you're visiting during the summer months. The ruins are not in the best shape and it appears not to be maintained considering the 6€ fee. There's limited signage as to what you're looking at and there were no guide's available either. The views are amazing from here as well but I do wish there was some more informational signs to learn or understand it a bit more especially after such a long walk! I can't imagine the Roman empire was controlled from this very location!
Vlad Cadar (2 years ago)
Beautiful ruins of a very interesting villa. Some parts were closed, however, there was still plenty to see. The views from up there are also great. The walk there is not very long, and despite it being uphill, it's not that strenuous. There's also a restaurant with great views on the way if you need a rest and/or a drink and food. Also along the way there is a park with even more spectacular views of the sea, cliffs, and the island.
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