Natural Arch (Arco Naturale)

A 12-metre natural limestone arch perched on the eastern cliff above the sea

The Natural Arch is one of Capri's most striking geological features: a 12-metre natural limestone arch that appears suddenly at the end of a cliff walk from Capri town, framing a view straight out to sea. It is a 20-minute walk from the Piazzetta through winding lanes that pass some of the island's oldest residential areas.

The arch is accessible without a ticket — just the walk — and for this reason tends to be slightly less crowded than the major sights. The cliff path below it continues to the Grotta di Matermania, a Roman cave used for religious ceremonies. The walk back to Capri can be done via the Belvedere di Tragara and the Faraglioni viewpoint, making a circular route of about 90 minutes from the Piazzetta.

things to do sight
A story
The Arco Naturale was formed by wave action on ancient limestone before the sea level dropped. It now sits 60 metres above the water, left inland by the retreating coastline — a reminder that the island's geography was quite different in geological prehistory.