Villa Jovis, Capri, Italy - SpottingHistory.com

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.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Alin Iacob (2 years ago)
Don't go there, it's not worthwhile. Long long walk uphill, you'll loose most of the day. Old ruin, not restored, no plants, no beautiful flowers, like on the other villas. Way too expensive for what it has to offer. Hint: look at pictures before deciding..

Julian Wolpe (2 years ago)
Stunning views from the top from a beautiful and shaded garden!

Roberto A (2 years ago)
I grew up on the island, it's always fun when I go back to visit, plenty of memories but I have to say. It has changed since I was a child. We used to go and play at Villa Jovis, now many years later it's sad to see that everything is collapsing. Poor maintenance. So sad, just the history that this place holds it's enough to keep it up.

Christoph Geyer (2 years ago)
You'll have a great view over Capri, Vesuv and the sea around. Plus it's covered with trees so you'll get some time to spend in the shade

Tricky Drinkywater (3 years ago)
Views were excellent. Knowing the communications back to Rome via Naples is unbelievable. Not much but ruins left on this ancient place. Recommend the cafe on the way down from the villa. Lovely snacks n views.

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