I would not call it a hidden gem but a shining blue one! Grotto Azzurra famous blue gem is nestled in the sea cave on the coast of Anacapri, west of the island. The famous picturesque way in is by sea on boat through its cave mouth and another is by land.
Grotta Azzurra ……… with the Rrrroll of tongue the Italian way!
Grotta Azurra tour boats on Anacapri, Isle of Capri
Grotta Azurra …. from the inside of the cave
ISLE OF CAPRI is a popular destination during summer among the locals and international tourists. Located at the south side of the Gulf of Naples in the Campania region of Italy, the island has seen a flock of writers and artist in the mid-19th century who came to call Capri its haven and home.
I would not call it a hidden gem but a shining blue one! Grotta Azurra famous blue gem is nestled in the sea cave on the coast of Anacapri, west of the island. The famous picturesque way in is by sea on boat through its cave mouth and another is by land.
Upon entering into the cave, it emits an azure blue light which is reflected on the cave walls by its bluish sapphire like waters caused by a refraction of daylight through the above cave opening and another through submerged. Swimming is forbidden to preserve the clarity of the water.
The Emperor Tiberius use to swim in its waters, dedicating it to sea nymphs as a temple attributing to today’s rich historic significance with finds of sea gods statue- Neptune, Triton and a few others.
The grotto was re-discovered in 1826 by German writer and painter August Kopisch and a friend Ernst Fries, birthing the famed book in 1838 – Entdeckung der blauen Grotte auf der Insel Capri (Discovery of the Blue Grotto on the Isle of Capri).
Following there were many famous authors such as Mark Twain, Alberto Moravia, Hans Christian Anderson, Ann Weil and many more ….. who have written about Capri or set a background scenario in their book.
The Grotto Azzurra does not open its arms wide to welcome just anyone to visit at its whims and fancies, as some tourists have disappointedly encountered. Due to the narrow opening of the cave mouth (less than one meter in height) and sea conditions at that time. I like to think it is granted by the Lady Fortuna but for many others it has to do with time and tide!
Italy a place of history, religion,fashion such as the Vatican city, Piazzas, Colosseum, Leaning Towers of Pisa, Milan for its upscale fashion or even the beautiful canals of Venice these are a “must visit once in your lifetime” destination. The summers are bright with blue cloudless sky calls for further exploration!
Apple Signature West brings you to these very destinations. Follow Link for more info:
COMPREHENSIVE ITALY – BELLA VITA
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