Certosa di San Giacomo, Capri

Monastery in Capri

Certosa di San Giacomo
Certosa di San Giacomo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Berthold Werner

Standing quietly above the bustling center of Capri, the Certosa di San Giacomo tells a layered story of privilege, pirate raids, political upheaval, abandonment, and revival. Founded in the 14th century, this monastic complex offers one of the top attractions in Capri for travelers seeking history away from the crowds. Its cloisters, gardens, and ancient corridors offer a peaceful contrast to the busy Piazzetta, making it a rewarding stop during a visit to the island.

The walk to the Certosa takes you past fragrant gardens and classic Capri vistas, helping you appreciate why this spot is often visited on walking tours of Capri. Once inside, you'll find quiet courtyards, ancient stonework, and a museum dedicated to artist Karl Wilhelm Diefenbach, who lived on the island in the early 20th century. The combination of history, art, and serene architecture gives this place a unique atmosphere that lingers long after your visit.

History and Significance of the Certosa di San Giacomo

Built between 1371 and 1373 at the request of Count Giacomo Arcucci, and constructed on land granted by Queen Giovanna I d'Angiò, the Certosa di San Giacomo originally housed the Carthusian monastic order. For more than four centuries, the monastery enjoyed wealth, prestige, and influence on the island. Its fortunes changed in 1808 when Franco-Neapolitan troops under King Joachim Murat captured Capri from the British. The monks' assets were seized, their privileges removed, and monastic life at the Certosa abruptly ended.

After the fall of the Carthusians, the complex entered a long period of practical but turbulent re-use. It became a barracks in 1815, later a hospice, and between 1860 and 1898 it served as headquarters for the 5th Discipline Company-housing anarchists and soldiers accused of misconduct. Restoration work began in 1927, and in 1936 the Lateran Canons created a library and gymnasium here. World War II brought further decline, but renewed conservation efforts in the 1970s led to a significant revival.

In 1975, a wing of the Certosa was transformed into a museum dedicated to German painter Karl Wilhelm Diefenbach, whose mystical and symbolic works were deeply influenced by his years on Capri. Today, after extensive restorations, the Certosa di San Giacomo is a cultural hub hosting exhibitions, concerts, and events throughout the year.

Things to See and Do in the Certosa di San Giacomo

A visit to the Certosa invites you to wander through one of Capri’s most atmospheric sites. The complex includes a church, two cloisters, a rectory, the Prior’s quarters, refectory, and peaceful gardens. The Great Cloister, with its Roman and Byzantine pillars, is especially impressive, and the original twelve monastic dwellings still frame the courtyard.

Look for the stone well that rests above a 21-meter-deep cistern, likely dating back to Roman imperial times. The smaller cloister offers a more intimate space for quiet reflection, while the baroque clock tower-with its unusual square base and triangular spire-adds a distinctive architectural element to the skyline.

Inside the Refectory, the Diefenbach Museum displays 31 canvases, five plaster sculptures, and a portrait documenting the artist's life, ideals, and years on Capri. Many of the works were donated to Italy by his heirs. Across the complex, visitors can also admire frescoes from the late 17th and early 18th centuries, marble details, and architectural remnants that reveal the site's long and varied history.

How to Get to the Certosa di San Giacomo

Reaching the Certosa di San Giacomo is simple once you arrive in Capri town. From the Piazzetta, follow signs toward the Gardens of Augustus and Via Krupp; the walk is pleasant and takes around 10 to 15 minutes.

For international visitors, the closest major airport is Naples International Airport, followed by a ferry to Capri from Naples or Sorrento. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Capri on Booking.com. Travelers arriving by train into Naples can easily connect to the ferry terminals serving the island. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

Because cars are heavily restricted for non-residents, visitors exploring by car on the mainland typically leave their vehicle in Sorrento or Naples before taking the ferry to Capri. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Certosa di San Giacomo

  • Best time to visit the Certosa di San Giacomo: Early morning or late afternoon for quieter cloisters and softer light.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: A small ticket fee applies for entry.
  • Opening hours: Hours vary by season; check locally for current times.
  • Official website: Listed on Capri’s cultural heritage pages.
  • How long to spend: About 45 minutes to 1 hour is ideal for exploring both cloisters and the museum.
  • Accessibility: Some areas have steps and uneven surfaces; partial accessibility only.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and shaded outdoor areas are available.
  • Photography tip: The Great Cloister offers the best angles for architectural shots.
  • Guided tours: Some cultural tours of Capri include the Certosa as part of their route.
  • Nearby food options: The area between Via Vittorio Emanuele and the Piazzetta offers cafés and light snacks.

Where to Stay close to the Certosa di San Giacomo

Staying in Capri town gives you easy access to the Certosa and nearby viewpoints such as the Gardens of Augustus. Consider Hotel La Minerva for elegant rooms and serene terraces, or Hotel Flora for boutique comfort close to the town center. Another refined option is Casa Morgano, which offers beautiful sea-view terraces and a peaceful atmosphere.

Is the Certosa di San Giacomo Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Certosa di San Giacomo offers an unexpected sense of calm combined with a rich historical story spanning centuries of change. Its cloisters, gardens, and museum make it a rewarding cultural stop, and its location near Capri's most scenic viewpoints enhances the experience. Whether you're drawn by art, architecture, or history, the Certosa adds depth and character to any visit to the island.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.0 (402)

Certosa San Giacomo on Via Certosa in Capri is a peaceful former Carthusian monastery where visitors can wander airy courtyards, cloisters and long halls filled with frescoes, large religious and oil paintings, and curated exhibits of antique art and Roman imperial artifacts; the well‑maintained gardens and a seaside balcony offer pleasant views, entry is typically straightforward with little or no wait, and many visitors praise its quiet, historic atmosphere and striking architecture.

Queen Theodora
2 months ago
"Bought an under 18 ticket on their website for me on a school trip for a solo visit. And it was free!! Was able to buy the tickets before our trip,and received an email with the online ticket and qr code. Update today I visited the museum/monument and it was AMAZING. It was so big and the i er garden and outer garden was so pretty. And the religous paintings were very interesting and very big! I also spotted a cat sleeping in the grass. WORTH VISITING. And it is located just beyond the street of designer shops...."
euclides rosario
3 months ago
"The Certosa San Giacomo is a beautiful and peaceful spot in Capri, full of history and charm. The monastery dates back centuries, and walking throughits courtyards, cloisters, and halls gives a real sense of the island’s past. The architecture is striking, and the grounds are well maintained, making it a relaxing place to explore away from the busier areas of Capri. There was no wait to enter when we visited, and tickets did not need to be booked in advance, which made it easy and stress free. From here, you also get some great views of the sea and surrounding landscape. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want a quiet and beautiful escape in Capri...."
L L
3 years ago
"Stu ing venue for art and example of 14th century Caprese architecture. The building has a storied past with faded frescos and long, empty hallways.It has a mysterious air with mildly overgrown areas and clean, but empty rooms with amazing views of the sea. The art exhibition is like nothing I've ever seen with the natural lighting highlighting the oil paintings which were already expressive and dramatic. Off season, it was €6 for two people (cash only), and fully worth the quiet, off-the-beaten path exploration...."

FAQs for Visiting the Certosa di San Giacomo

Around 10 to 15 minutes on foot along well-marked paths.
Yes, though the museum and cloisters are quiet spaces best enjoyed with supervision.
Some cultural and walking tours of Capri include the Certosa, but you can also visit independently.
Photography is generally allowed, though restrictions may apply in certain museum areas.
It is usually quieter than other Capri attractions, especially earlier in the day.

Nearby Attractions to the Certosa di San Giacomo

The Certosa di San Giacomo appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Capri!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. July, August, September

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. April, May, October, November and December

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. January, February, March

Price:

€6

Address: Certosa di San Giacomo, Via Certosa, Capri, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
Capri: 0 km
Official Website

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