Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Herculaneum

A Day on Capri

Our first stop was Villa Jovis, the grand residence of Emperor Tiberius. The walk to the villa was a bit of a trek, a good 45 minutes uphill from the Piazzetta, but the views along the way were more than worth the effort. The path wound through charming streets and offered glimpses of the island's stunning landscape. I couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like for Tiberius, ruling the Roman Empire from this secluded paradise. The walk itself gave me a sense of the island's unique character, a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.


Discover the enchanting ruins of Villa Jovis in Capri, a historic site that showcases the grandeur of Roman architecture and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Reaching Villa Jovis, we were immediately struck by its commanding location. Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, the villa offered panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples and the surrounding coastline. The ruins themselves were extensive, a testament to the villa's former grandeur. Walking through the remains of the imperial quarters, the baths, and the astronomical observatory, I felt transported back in time. It was fascinating to imagine Tiberius walking these same halls, contemplating the fate of the empire.

Erika, with her keen eye for detail, pointed out the villa's ingenious water collection system, a network of cisterns and canals that provided the villa with a constant supply of fresh water. This was particularly impressive, given Capri's lack of natural springs. As an antique shop owner, I appreciate the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the past, and Villa Jovis was a prime example of Roman engineering prowess. It was a reminder that even in ancient times, people sought comfort and luxury, and were willing to go to great lengths to achieve it.

Exploring Villa Jovis felt like stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to the Roman Empire and the life of Emperor Tiberius.

After our historical exploration, it was time for lunch. We made our way to Da Emilia alla curtiglia capri, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Caprese cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the midday sun. We were lucky to snag a table with a view of the sea, the gentle breeze adding to the pleasant atmosphere.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Da Emilia alla Curtiglia in Anacapri, where fresh seafood meets traditional recipes.

I opted for the seafood salad, a refreshing mix of fresh catches from the Tyrrhenian Sea. Erika, always drawn to local specialties, chose the ravioli capresi, a pasta dish filled with caciotta cheese and marjoram. Both dishes were exquisite, bursting with flavor and showcasing the island's culinary heritage. As we savored our meal, we watched the boats bobbing in the harbor, the sounds of laughter and conversation filling the air. It was a quintessential Caprese experience, a moment of pure relaxation and enjoyment.

In the afternoon, we decided to explore the town of Capri itself. The streets were narrow and winding, lined with upscale boutiques and artisan shops. Erika, with her impeccable sense of style, was in her element, browsing the latest fashions and admiring the local crafts. I, on the other hand, was drawn to the antique shops, hoping to uncover a hidden gem or two. While I didn't find anything to add to my collection, I enjoyed the thrill of the hunt, the anticipation of discovering something rare and unique.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to the Buena Vista Beach Club, a bar known for its stunning sunset views. We ordered a couple of Aperol spritzes and settled in to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The sky was ablaze with color, a fiery mix of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to a memorable day. Sipping our drinks, Erika and I reflected on our Capri adventure, the historical sites, the delicious food, and the breathtaking scenery. It was a day that would stay with us for a long time.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Buena Vista Beach Club, a premier destination for music, dancing, and cocktails by the beautiful Ercolano coastline.

For dinner, we chose Sapori Di Capri Di D'Esposito Antonino, a restaurant promising an authentic taste of the island. The restaurant was cozy and intimate, the perfect setting for a romantic meal. I decided on the catch of the day, grilled to perfection and served with a side of roasted vegetables. Erika opted for the spaghetti alle vongole, a classic Neapolitan dish. Once again, the food was exceptional, a testament to the island's culinary prowess. As we dined, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow, a visit to Vesuvius National Park and Villa Ruggiero. The prospect of exploring more of the region's historical and natural wonders filled us with anticipation.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Sapori Di Capri, your go-to food store in Anacapri for delicious local specialties.

Reflecting on our day in Capri, I am struck by the island's unique ability to blend history, beauty, and culture. From the ancient ruins of Villa Jovis to the vibrant streets of Capri town, the island offers a wealth of experiences for the discerning traveler. As we prepare to leave this enchanting island, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced its magic. It is a place that will forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that our world has to offer.

Tomorrow, we will explore Vesuvius National Park and Villa Ruggiero, further immersing ourselves in the rich history and natural beauty of this region. I am particularly looking forward to seeing the volcano that played such a pivotal role in the fate of Herculaneum. And perhaps, we will find a small antique shop near Vesuvius – one never knows where a hidden treasure might be lurking.

Good night from Herculaneum!