Villa Damecuta, Capri

Villa Damecuta was one of Emperor Tiberius's famed twelve villas on Capri-likely serving as a summer retreat for the Roman elite. Today, only its ruins remain: a long porticoed loggia, estimated at 80 meters in length, once opened toward the Gulf of Naples and culminated in a sweeping semicircular belvedere. Beneath the site lies a tucked-away alcove with a small terrace overlooking the sea.

Archaeological findings of marble floors, stucco, and decorative art hint at its lavish past, though much of it was lost to nature, pirate raids, and military fortifications. Crowning the ruins is a medieval watchtower, originally designed to guard against Saracen pirates. Sitting around 151 meters above sea level, the tower offers sweeping views-stretching all the way to the neighboring island of Ischia.

Villa Damecuta offers a quiet retreat into history. Many travelers describe it as peaceful and atmospheric thanks to the sparse ruins and tranquil surroundings. It’s particularly magical at sunset, when the golden light enhances the silhouette of the watchtower against the sky.