CAPRI, Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto, known worldwide for its enchanting cobalt blue color, is located on the north-west coast of the island. This grotto has captured the imagination of visitors, artists and writers for centuries, becoming an iconic symbol of Capri.

It was first discovered in Roman times, when it was used as a marine nymphaeum, a place of worship dedicated to water deities.

Archaeological evidence, such as the statues found inside the grotto and the remains of ancient piers, suggest that it was known and appreciated by the Emperor Tiberius, who chose Capri as his residence. However, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the grotto fell into oblivion and was not rediscovered until 1826, by the German painter August Kopisch and his friend, the writer Ernst Fries, guided by a local fisherman.

During the nineteenth-century explorations, numerous archaeological artifacts were found inside the grotto, including statues and artwork dating back to Roman times. These elements have been transferred to various museums, including the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, where you can admire them.

The grotto has a very narrow opening, barely visible from sea level, through which boats can pass only when the conditions of the sea are favorable.  Visitors have to lie on the bottom of the boat to be able to enter safely. If you suffer from claustrophobia, don’t worry, because once inside, a large room about 60 meters long and 25 meters wide opens up before you, with a maximum height of about 15 meters. The interior is enveloped in surreal blue light that illuminates the water, creating a magical effect.

The deep blue color of the water is due to sunlight entering through an underwater opening located just below the main entrance. As the light filters through the water, the process of refraction filters out the red wavelengths, allowing only the blue wavelengths through. In addition, the light reflected from the white background of the cave helps to amplify the intensity of the blue.

An interesting fact: Although the grotto was known to the locals, before its rediscovery in the 19th century it was long considered a mysterious, dangerous place, shrouded in legend and superstition, and was believed to be inhabited by spirits and demons.