Villa San Michele Anacapri

Villa San Michele is a historic villa and garden located in Anacapri, built by the Swedish physician and writer Axel Munthe in the early 20th century. This enchanting site reflects Munthe’s vision of harmony between nature, art, and history. The villa is famous for its stunning panoramic views over the Bay of Naples, Capri, and the Marina Grande. Its design integrates ancient Roman, Greek, and Egyptian artifacts collected by Munthe during his travels. Visitors are mesmerized by the peaceful atmosphere of the gardens, the beautiful loggia, and features like the Sphinx Statue, which overlooks the sea and adds a sense of mystery and wonder to the experience.

To reach Villa San Michele, first head to Anacapri, which is accessible by bus, taxi, or a scenic walk from Capri Town. From the Marina Grande, where ferries arrive, take the bus to Anacapri (approximately 20 minutes). Once in Anacapri’s main square, it’s just a short and pleasant walk along Via Axel Munthe to reach the villa. Alternatively, adventurous visitors can take the historic Phoenician Steps, a steep staircase connecting Marina Grande to Anacapri. The journey provides magnificent views but is physically demanding, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Villa San Michele is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and garden admirers. Key highlights include: The Gardens: The lush Mediterranean gardens are filled with vibrant flowers, ancient sculptures, and shaded pathways. The peaceful setting invites visitors to relax while enjoying the panoramic views of the island. Artifacts: Inside the villa, you’ll find a fascinating collection of ancient Roman, Greek, and Egyptian artifacts, including statues, mosaics, and sarcophagi. These pieces were meticulously curated by Axel Munthe himself. The Sphinx Statue: Perched on the terrace, the iconic granite sphinx gazes over the Bay of Naples. It is one of the villa’s most famous and photographed features. The Loggia and Rooms: The villa’s rooms feature historic furnishings, manuscripts, and photographs of Munthe’s life. The loggia provides breathtaking views and is a favorite spot for visitors. The entire experience is both peaceful and inspiring, combining culture, art, and nature.

Villa San Michele was the dream of Axel Munthe, a Swedish doctor and writer who fell in love with Capri. Munthe built the villa on the ruins of an ancient Roman structure, blending classical elements with his artistic vision. He wrote about the villa and his experiences in his famous book, "The Story of San Michele", a bestseller that brought worldwide attention to the site. Munthe dedicated much of his life to creating this peaceful sanctuary, which he described as “a house open to the sun, the wind, and the voice of the sea.” Today, Villa San Michele stands as a testament to his deep appreciation for art, nature, and history.

As of the latest information, the entrance fee for Villa San Michele is approximately €10 per person. This includes access to the villa’s interiors, its gardens, and the stunning panoramic terrace. Discounts are often available for students, children, and senior citizens. For an enhanced experience, visitors can also join guided tours to learn about Axel Munthe’s life, the villa’s history, and its impressive collection of artifacts.

Yes, Anacapri has many other attractions worth exploring nearby: Monte Solaro Chairlift: Take the chairlift from Anacapri to Monte Solaro, the highest point on Capri, for unmatched panoramic views of the island and the Gulf of Naples. Piazza Vittoria: The main square in Anacapri is a lively spot to relax, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy local cafes. Church of San Michele: A short walk from the villa, this historic church is famous for its majolica tile floor, depicting the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. Local Artisan Shops: Explore the artisan shops offering handmade sandals, ceramics, and perfumes unique to Capri. Combining Villa San Michele with these attractions makes for a perfect day in Anacapri.