Grotta di Matermania
A captivating natural cave on Capri, once a Roman nymphaeum, accessible via the stunning Pizzolungo trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for exploration
Grotta di Matermania
Best Time
Best light for exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A captivating natural cave on Capri, once a Roman nymphaeum, accessible via the stunning Pizzolungo trail.
"A must-see on the trail between the Arco Naturale and the Belvedere di Tragara, offering ancient history and natural beauty."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The Pizzolungo trail has steep, uneven steps. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for safe exploration.
💧 Bring Water
Capri can be warm, especially during hiking. Stay hydrated on the Pizzolungo trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Roman Nymphaeum
Inside the cave
Explore the remnants of a Roman nymphaeum, once dedicated to the goddess Cybele. Imagine ancient rituals within these walls.
Impressive Rock Formations
Inside the cave
Marvel at the natural, sculpted rock formations within the cavern, a testament to geological artistry.
Pizzolungo Trail Views
Pizzolungo trail
Enjoy breathtaking coastal vistas and the iconic Arco Naturale along the path leading to the cave.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Matermania
Navigating the Pizzolungo Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The Pizzolungo trail has steep, uneven steps. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for safe exploration.
💧 Bring Water
Capri can be warm, especially during hiking. Stay hydrated on the Pizzolungo trail.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The trail offers stunning views of the Arco Naturale and coastline. Don't forget your camera!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The walk to the cave is as beautiful as the destination. Enjoy the journey and the views.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The Pizzolungo trail has steep, uneven steps. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for safe exploration.
💧 Bring Water
Capri can be warm, especially during hiking. Stay hydrated on the Pizzolungo trail.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The trail offers stunning views of the Arco Naturale and coastline. Don't forget your camera!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The walk to the cave is as beautiful as the destination. Enjoy the journey and the views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Grotta di Matermania a fascinating historical site and a beautiful stop along the scenic Pizzolungo trail. The cave's Roman past and natural rock formations are highlights, offering a serene escape. However, the steep and challenging nature of the trail requires good physical condition and appropriate footwear.
"Grotta di Matermania, nestled along Capri’s scenic Pizzolungo trail, is a fascinating natural cave with ancient history. Once a site for Roman-era rituals, it offers a mysterious, atmospheric stop for hikers. The cavern’s impressive rock formations, lush surroundings, and proximity to the Arco Naturale make it a must-visit. While not a major tourist attraction, it’s a serene escape into Capri’s wilder side. Ideal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts."
Dani Baal
"A very interesting place to visit once you descend the impressive stairs from the Arco Naturale side. The stone structure inside the cave is truly impressive."
Anna Siwińska
"This is a must-see on the trail between the Arco Naturale and the Belvedere di Tragara. Once transformed by the Romans into a sumptuous nymphaeum, this cave now shows few remains of its walls. It was dedicated by the Romans to the goddess Cybele. The Matermania cave has a semicircular shape and extends for about thirty meters, with a maximum width of twenty meters in the center and an average height of ten meters."
Kylian Surget
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grotta di Matermania is accessible via the Pizzolungo trail on Capri. You can start this scenic walk from various points on the island, often near the Arco Naturale. The trail involves significant stair climbing.
The Pizzolungo trail is moderately challenging due to its steep steps and uneven terrain. It's manageable for most visitors with good mobility, but requires sturdy footwear.
While public transport can get you to Capri, reaching the cave itself requires walking the Pizzolungo trail. There are no direct bus routes to the cave entrance.
There is no direct parking at Grotta di Matermania. You'll need to park in Capri town or Marina Grande and then make your way to the Pizzolungo trail.
The most common and recommended access is via the Pizzolungo trail, particularly from the Arco Naturale side. This route offers beautiful views and leads directly to the cave.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee for Grotta di Matermania itself. Access is free as it's part of the natural landscape and hiking trails on Capri.
Grotta di Matermania is naturally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times, but visiting when it's light is essential for safety and appreciation.
While children can visit, the steep and uneven steps of the Pizzolungo trail may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Adult supervision is crucial.
Swimming is generally not recommended or feasible within Grotta di Matermania due to its rocky interior and the nature of the trail access.
Crowds can vary. Weekends and peak tourist season may see more visitors on the Pizzolungo trail. Visiting on a weekday or during shoulder seasons can offer a more serene experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The cave interior offers dramatic rock formations. The Pizzolungo trail itself provides stunning panoramic shots of the coastline and the Arco Naturale.
Yes, photography is allowed inside Grotta di Matermania. However, be mindful of the lighting conditions within the cave.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the cave's interior and the expansive coastal views. A tripod might be helpful for low-light conditions inside the cave, but can be cumbersome on the trail.
Drone usage is generally restricted in many protected natural areas and historical sites in Italy, including Capri. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlights within the cave and along the trail, enhancing photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the overall stamina of your family. If the steepness is a concern, you might opt for shorter sections of the Pizzolungo trail or focus on the Arco Naturale viewpoint. The cave itself is a fascinating natural formation, but the journey there is the main adventure. Make it a fun exploration, turning the steps into a game or a treasure hunt for the best views.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
This is an opportunity to step away from the more crowded tourist spots and immerse yourself in Capri's wilder side. The cave's ancient Roman connections add a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty. Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear, carry sufficient water, and be prepared for the challenging ascents and descents. The effort is well worth the stunning vistas and the unique historical site you'll discover.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roman Legacy of Grotta di Matermania
Imagine the scene: Romans gathering in this natural amphitheater, perhaps offering prayers or participating in ceremonies dedicated to fertility and the earth. The cave's strategic location along the coast would have added to its mystique. While much of the original decoration has eroded over centuries, the sheer scale and architectural adaptation by the Romans are still awe-inspiring. It's a reminder that Capri was not just a pleasure island but also a site of deep cultural and religious significance in antiquity.
Exploring the Pizzolungo Trail
Hikers will encounter a rugged, natural landscape, dotted with Mediterranean scrub and wildflowers. The path is well-maintained but requires sturdy footwear due to its uneven surfaces and steep inclines. Along the way, you'll find viewpoints offering glimpses of the Faraglioni rocks and the vast expanse of the sea. It's a journey that engages all the senses, from the scent of wild herbs to the sound of the waves crashing below.
Pro Tip: Start your walk from the Arco Naturale side to reach the cave more directly. Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the trail, including stops for photos and to simply soak in the magnificent scenery. The experience is as much about the journey as it is about reaching the destination.
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