The floor's central scene portrays the Archangel Michael casting Adam and Eve out of Paradise, surrounded by animals and floral motifs.
The majolica tiles were produced specifically for this church in the local workshops of Naples during the 1760s.
The church was built for the adjoining convent of Teresian nuns, which was suppressed in the early 19th century.
Architect Antonio Vaccaro utilized a complex geometry to ensure the perspective of the floor tiles aligns when viewed from the entrance.
The interior dome design echoes the late Neapolitan Baroque style, emphasizing light and structural harmony.
The Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo in Anacapri is an 18th-century Baroque church famous for its intricate majolica-tiled floor. Designed by architect Antonio Vaccaro and completed in 1719, the floor depicts the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. The church features an octagonal Greek-cross floor plan centered beneath a large dome. The flooring is composed of thousands of hand-painted ceramic tiles manufactured by Leonardo Chianese. Visitors are restricted to a narrow wooden walkway to prevent damage to the historic tile surface. The altar is constructed from polychrome marble, contrasting with the detailed tilework. It remains an active religious site while functioning as a major cultural landmark in Anacapri.
From the rear entrance near the door, where the entire perspective of the Adam and Eve tile mural is visible.
Use the elevated wooden walkway to protect the tiles, as walking directly on the historic ceramic is strictly prohibited.
Look up at the dome from the center of the nave to appreciate the vertical architectural symmetry intended by the architect.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the crowds that congregate on the narrow walkway during peak summer months.
Do not attempt to step off the wooden viewing platform, as the 18th-century tiles are fragile and protected by strict surveillance.
Often closed on Mondays throughout the year.
Modest dress is required; shoulders and knees must be covered. Maintain silence as the church is a consecrated space.
