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Villa San Michele: Axel Munthe's Island Dream

Discover Axel Munthe's island paradise: a stunning villa with breathtaking views, ancient art, and tranquil gardens in Anacapri.

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Villa San Michele, located in Anacapri on the island of Capri, was the dream home of Swedish physician Axel Munthe. Built on the ruins of an ancient Roman villa and a medieval chapel, it houses Munthe's collection of artifacts and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Naples. Today, it's a museum and cultural center, showcasing a blend of ancient relics and 19th-century design.

A brief summary to Villa San Michele

  • Monday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-3:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is walking and some stairs involved in exploring the villa and gardens.
  • Check the official website for seasonal opening hours and special events.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the villa and gardens.
  • Combine your visit with a ride on the Monte Solaro chairlift for panoramic views of the island.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Capri, take the bus to Anacapri, getting off at Piazza Vittoria. From Piazza Vittoria, walk up the stairs opposite the bus stop and continue along the tree-lined avenue on the left, following the signs for Villa San Michele. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. Bus fare from Capri to Anacapri is around €2.

  • Taxi

    From the port of Marina Grande, a taxi to Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri will take approximately 20 minutes. From there, follow the walking directions to the villa. A taxi from Marina Grande to Anacapri typically costs between €25-€35.

  • Walking

    For those with strong legs, it is possible to walk from Marina Grande to Anacapri via the Phoenician Steps. This is a steep climb of approximately 40 minutes. Once in Anacapri, follow signs to Villa San Michele. Note: This route is challenging and only recommended for physically fit individuals.

Unlock the Best of Villa San Michele

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Discover more about Villa San Michele

Perched high in Anacapri, Villa San Michele is a testament to the vision of Axel Munthe, a Swedish physician and author who made Capri his home. Built in the late 19th century on the site of Roman ruins and a medieval chapel, the villa is more than just a building; it's a harmonious blend of architecture, art, and nature. Munthe, seeking a sanctuary open to the sun, wind, and the sea, created a space that embodies classical ideals. The villa's design incorporates Roman, Etruscan, and Egyptian artifacts that Munthe collected throughout his life, seamlessly integrating them into the structure and gardens. Visitors can explore rooms filled with ancient sculptures, Roman mosaics, and Tuscan furniture, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples. The gardens of Villa San Michele are a highlight, featuring Mediterranean flora and ancient relics. A white, trellis-covered colonnade encircles the gardens, offering shade and stunning vistas. The Egyptian sphinx, a symbol of the villa, stands guard over the sea, inviting visitors to make a wish while touching its surface. Munthe's love for animals and nature is also evident, as he transformed the nearby Monte Barbarossa into a bird sanctuary. Villa San Michele is not only a museum but also a cultural center that hosts concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical performances. It's a place where history, art, and nature converge, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit.

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