Capri

Capri (ancient Capreae), island, south central Italy, at the entrance of the Bay of Naples, near the city of Naples. It is about 6 km (4 mi) long and about 2 km (1.5 mi) at its widest point, with an area of 10.4 sq km (4 sq mi). Limestone cliffs, 274 m (900 ft) high, rise from the sea in the east; Mount Solaro, in the west, the highest point on the island, is 585 m (1,920 ft) above sea level. The town of Capri, 136 m (450 ft) high, is an episcopal see. From the town 784 steps, carved in the rock, lead upwards to Anacapri. To the west of the town of Capri is the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), a cavern, entered from the sea by a narrow opening not more than 91 cm (3 ft) high, but which is of magnificent proportions inside. Elliptical in form, it is 53 m (175 ft) long, 30 m (100 ft) at the widest part, and 12 m (41 ft) high; the water in the cavern is 15 m (48 ft) deep. Stalactites hang from the roof and sides. The blue colour within the grotto is caused by the light passing through the water. Capri contains relics of prehistoric ages and numerous remains of Roman times, including the ruins of the 12 villas built by the Emperor Tiberius, who resided in Capri for ten years. No springs or streams are on Capri, but it has abundant rainfall and is fertile, producing olive oil, wine, and fruit. The tourist trade provides the principal source of income for the islanders, who number 7,400 (1990 estimate).