How Old Is Capri? Uncovering the Timeless Allure of Italy’s Iconic Island

An island steeped in legend, luxury, and timeless Mediterranean charm, Capri has enchanted visitors for millennia—yet its precise age in human history remains as elusive as the shimmering waters that surround it. From mythical origins to its modern status as a global luxury destination, the history of Capri spans over two thousand years, marked by cultural transformations and enduring fascination. Understanding how old Capri truly is reveals not just a number, but a layered narrative of settlement, power, and beauty.

Capri’s earliest known human presence dates to the Paleolithic era, though definitive evidence of sustained settlement emerges in the Neolithic and Bronze Ages (circa 4000–1500 BCE). Archaeological findings on the island—including pottery shards, stone tools, and burial sites—indicate seasonal habitation by prehistoric communities drawn to its freshwater springs, strategic location, and sheltered coves. These early inhabitants laid the foundation for a civilization shaped by its unique geography and maritime access.

Capri Through the Ages: From Mythic Past to Literary Fame

By the first millennium BCE, Capri began to emerge from myth into recorded history. Ancient Greek and Roman sources reference the island—known then as *Caries* or *Caprare*—as a place of mystery and both allure and danger. The Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder described Capri as a retreat favored by emperors, notably Augustus, who built lavish villas there, transforming it into a symbol of imperial opulence.

His account underscores the island’s growing reputation as a sanctuary for the elite. During the late Roman Empire and early medieval period, Capri’s prominence waned, though monastic communities quietly maintained a presence. The turning point came in the 16th century, when lush gardens, dramatic sea cliffs, and azure coves captivated European artists and intellectuals—a visual feast recounted with vivid awe by travelers like the French poet Ausonius and later the painter Joseph Wright.

This era laid the groundwork for Capri’s transformation into a cultural landmark.

By the 18th and 19th centuries, Capri’s age deficit shrank in perception: once a mythic isle, now an irresistible destination for aristocrats, writers, and celebrities. The opening of the first hotel in the mid-1800s and the arrival of luminaries such as Thomas Beckett and Elsa Schiaparelli solidified its status as a timeless playground.

Today, Capri’s identity balances ancient stone with modern glamour—a living tapestry woven across millennia.

Modern research and archaeological surveys confirm human occupation on Capri stretching back at least 6,000 to 7,000 years. Submerged ruins from Paleolithic settlements suggest coastal communities adapted to changing sea levels, exploiting marine resources and strategic crossroads. Key findings include early shell middens—evidence of coastal foraging—and lithic tools crafted from local basalt and limestone, offering tangible