Grotta del Turco
Explore the mystical Grotta del Turco and the legendary Montagna Spaccata in Gaeta, a natural wonder with a dramatic history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Full access to the sea level
Grotta del Turco
Best Time
Full access to the sea level
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the mystical Grotta del Turco and the legendary Montagna Spaccata in Gaeta, a natural wonder with a dramatic history.
"After 10 years, the magical Grotta del Turco reopens, offering a breathtaking natural experience."
Check Opening Hours First
Hours can vary and it closes for a few hours daily. Don't miss out! :clock1:
Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of steps involved, especially for the full descent. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Split Mountain
Montagna Spaccata
A dramatic geological wonder, legend says it split open at the moment of Christ's death. Truly awe-inspiring.
Grotta del Turco
Base of Montagna Spaccata
Explore this mystical sea cave, accessible via a steep staircase, offering stunning natural light play.
Santuario della Santissima Trinità
Montagna Spaccata
A unique church built within the rock itself, offering a spiritual and architectural marvel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
The Descent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours First
Hours can vary and it closes for a few hours daily. Don't miss out! :clock1:
Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of steps involved, especially for the full descent. :athletic_shoe:
Full Access is Back!
The path to the sea level reopened August 15th, 2025. :wave:
Explore Beyond the Main Cave
There's a second, remarkable spot near the sea light. Look for the stairway on the left. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours First
Hours can vary and it closes for a few hours daily. Don't miss out! :clock1:
Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of steps involved, especially for the full descent. :athletic_shoe:
Full Access is Back!
The path to the sea level reopened August 15th, 2025. :wave:
Explore Beyond the Main Cave
There's a second, remarkable spot near the sea light. Look for the stairway on the left. :sparkles:
Free Entry!
Access to the Grotta del Turco is free, though donations are welcome. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Grotta del Turco an impressive and beautiful natural wonder, especially with the full access to the sea level now restored. The dramatic split mountain and the mystical cave are highlights, though the steepness of the stairs and occasional closures can be a minor drawback for some. It's considered a worthwhile visit, particularly if you're already in the Gaeta area.
"It is really nice but also very steep. Its basically going downhill and climbing up the hill again. The view is worth it. Its said jesus cry split the mountain."
Amrutha Pradeep
"Place is impressive but you should check opening times as it is closed couple of hours also during day time."
Edith Zeliko
"Great place for visit. Actually there are two places here. 1 is most popular, but 2 also remarkable near the see light. To reach the place take straight after main entrance, left side, go to small chapel, and on the left side there is stairway down. You will find another great place!"
Andrey Gavrilenko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grotta del Turco is conveniently located about 2 hours from both Rome and Naples by car. Public transport options include trains to Formia and then a local bus or taxi to Gaeta. Renting a boat from Formia is also an option to explore the coast. +1
Parking can be challenging in Gaeta, especially during peak season. It's advisable to look for designated parking areas and be prepared for a short walk or to use local transport to reach the Montagna Spaccata area.
Yes, you can take a train to Formia and then a local bus or taxi to Gaeta. From Gaeta, local buses can take you closer to the Montagna Spaccata.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Grotta del Turco is free. Donations are appreciated to help maintain the site. +1
The Grotta del Turco is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM. However, it's crucial to check current hours as they can change and the site may close for a few hours during the day.
Yes, after a long closure, the full descent to the sea level has been reopened since August 15th, 2025. Be prepared for a steep staircase.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Legend has it that the mountain split open at the moment of Christ's death, and the cave was used by Ottoman pirates for shelter or attacks.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended due to the steep stairs. Light clothing is advisable, especially during warmer months.
Yes, children can visit, but the steep stairs require supervision. The natural beauty and legends can be captivating for younger visitors.
The 'Devil's Well' is another name associated with the Montagna Spaccata area, possibly referring to the dramatic geological formations or the legend of the mountain splitting.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon often provides beautiful 'golden hour' light that enhances the cave's natural colors and reflections. Weekday mornings can offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Expect dramatic shots of the sea cave, the split mountain, the unique church built into the rock, and stunning coastal views. The interplay of light and water inside the cave is particularly photogenic. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for the late afternoon for the best golden hour light that illuminates the cave's textures and colors. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend and History of Grotta del Turco
Legend intertwines with history, most notably the dramatic tale of the Montagna Spaccata (Split Mountain). It is said that the mountain fissured open at the exact moment of Christ's crucifixion, mirroring the tearing of the veil in the Temple of Jerusalem. The Santuario della Santissima Trinità (Sanctuary of the Most Holy Trinity) is an integral part of the experience, with parts of the church literally carved into the rock face of the Montagna Spaccata.
After a decade of closure for safety reasons, the path allowing access all the way down to the sea level within the Grotta del Turco was fully reopened on August 15th, 2025.
Navigating the Steps and Access
It's crucial to be aware of the opening hours, as the site can close for a few hours during the day. Checking these hours in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Beyond the main cave, there are often mentions of a second remarkable spot near the sea light, accessible via a stairway on the left side after the main entrance.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit