Cool Facts About Capri

According to the ancient Greek, 'kapros' means 'wild boar'. The Latin word 'capreae' means 'goats'. Although the exact origin of the name 'Capri' is not known, fossils of wild boars have been found on the island. Historical evidence shows that the Romans used to refer to this island as 'the goat island'. It has been a place for relaxing and unwinding since the 18th century. The island of Capri is situated towards the southern side of the Gulf of Naples, in the Tyrrhenian Sea, near the Sorrento peninsula.

• Capri is one of the top 10 places to visit in Italy. It may not be as popular as Rome, Milan or Pisa, but it is as beautiful or rather more beautiful than Naples or Venice.
• Capri is situated off the Amalfi coast in Campania, Italy. The serene beauty and warm climate makes Capri a hot tourist spot. 

• You can visit Capri not only in summer but also in winter. Early spring is also an ideal time to explore Capri. Summertime (June to September) average temperature range is 27 - 31°C. During winter, the temperature drops down and is often in the range of 10 - 15°C.

• The island is divided into two small towns: Capri and Anacapri. The 'City of Capri' is the main commercial area. The 'Community of Anacapri' occupies the west side of the island. The striking scenery and pleasant climate of Capri and Anacapri has always attracted European artists, writers and celebrities.

• Historical facts about Capri inform us that Capri was first discovered by Caesar Augustus in 29 BC. He was so impressed by the peaceful charm of the island that he started visiting Capri again and again.

• His successor Tiberius built 12 lavish villas between 27 and 37 A.D. You can see the remains of the villas built by the Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius; which depict Roman, Norman, and Arabic architecture.

• The Greek 'Teleboi' were the first people to settle down in Capri. They came to this island in the 8th Century BC. Remains of various animals and weapons have been found at the excavation sites in Capri. Walls of an ancient Greek acropolis can be still seen in Capri. It is the only structure that shows that Taleboi once lived there.

'Hotel Pagano' was the first hotel on this island which was opened in 1826. The German writer Augustus Kopisch had visited Capri and stayed there. Many writers and poets were attracted by the magical solitude of this island.

•  Description of the intoxicating fragrance of the flowers on this island can be found in classical literary works. The rustic simplicity and the delicate splashes of color make this island one of the top spots for the tourists.

• The Blue Grotto is the most famous of the many caves on this island. It is situated along the west side of the island. The amazing blue color of the sea inside the cave leaves a permanent imprint on your mind. The breathtaking views of the caves make your trip memorable. Caves and mountain landscapes along the coastline of Capri are just awesome.

• Monte Solaro is the highest point (1,932 ft / 589 m) in Capri, from where you can enjoy a magnificent and delightful view of the island. Those who are fond of photography can click some excellent snaps from here.

• Capri is a perfect destination for those who love seaside nature. Those who love sea diving, kayaking, trekking, and water sports, would definitely enjoy their stay here. The 'Phoenician Steps', on the way to the sea from Anacapri is one of the most visited sites on the island.

• Fun facts about Capri inform us that the famous writer Somerset Maugham chose Capri as the setting for his short story 'The Lotus Eater'.

• In this story, the hero comes to Capri from Boston, to enjoy a holiday. He is so fascinated by the beauty of the island that he gives up his job and makes up his mind to spend the rest of his life in leisure there! What a realistic description of Capri!

I hope you found the information on Capri interesting. You can rent a boat in Capri and enjoy the serene beauty of the island. You can visit Naples and Pompeii after exploring the beauty of Capri. I hope the above facts have successfully revealed the magical qualities of the picturesque island 'Capri' in the Mediterranean sea.