Villa di Tiberio (Villa Jovis)

Historic Building in Capri

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mister No

Villa Jovis, also known as the Villa di Tiberio, is one of the most significant and well-preserved Roman villas on the island of Capri. Built during the reign of Emperor Tiberius, who ruled from 14 to 37 AD, the villa was one of the emperor’s primary residences during the last decade of his life. Perched atop Mount Tiberio on the northeastern tip of the island, the villa offers panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and the island of Ischia. This strategic location not only provided Tiberius with privacy but also allowed him to maintain communication with the mainland. Villa Jovis reflects the grandeur and sophistication of Roman imperial architecture, with its sprawling complex of terraces, rooms, baths, and cisterns.

Covering approximately 7,000 square meters, Villa Jovis was an architectural marvel of its time, equipped with advanced systems for water collection, storage, and heating. The villa was designed to function as a self-sufficient imperial residence, with large cisterns to capture rainwater and luxurious bathing facilities, including a grand thermal bath complex. While much of the villa now lies in ruins, visitors can still explore its extensive layout, including the remnants of the emperor’s private quarters, audience chambers, and servants’ quarters. The villa also features terraces that would have been used for observing the stars, as Tiberius was known to have a deep interest in astronomy.

Visiting Villa Jovis today offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Emperor Tiberius and the Roman Empire’s imperial luxury. The site requires a moderate hike from the town of Capri, taking visitors through scenic paths surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. Upon reaching the villa, the sweeping views of the surrounding sea and cliffs create a sense of awe, reminding visitors why Tiberius chose such a remote and commanding location for his retreat. The historical significance of Villa Jovis, combined with its stunning natural setting, makes it one of Capri’s most captivating archaeological sites, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

The Villa di Tiberio (Villa Jovis) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Capri!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Visiting Villa di Tiberio (Villa Jovis)

Hours:

Thursday to Sunday, at the following times:

10:00 a.M. -7:00 p.M. June, July, August, September

10:00 a.M. – 6:00 p.M. April, May and October

10:00 a.M. – 4:00 p.M. March, November and December.

Price:

€6

Address: Villa Jovis, Via Tiberio, Capri, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

Official Website