Axel Munthe constructed the villa on the ruins of a chapel dedicated to Saint Michael.
The garden features an Egyptian sphinx made of red granite, estimated to be over 3,000 years old.
The house was designed without a rigid plan, evolving as Munthe acquired more archeological fragments.
The loggia features a famous white marble sphinx that serves as the visual emblem of the estate.
During World War I, Munthe served as a volunteer doctor and often spent time at the villa to recover from health issues.
The villa includes a 'music room' that serves as a venue for classical concerts.
Many of the decorative items are original pieces recovered from the Roman villa that occupied the site during the reign of Tiberius.
The interior contains a collection of 19th-century Swedish furniture mixed with ancient Mediterranean artifacts.
Villa San Michele in Anacapri is the former residence of Swedish physician and author Axel Munthe, built on the site of a ruined chapel and an imperial Roman villa. The villa is renowned for its extensive collection of antiquities, including marble busts, sarcophagi, and sphinxes integrated into the gardens and architecture. The structure overlooks the Gulf of Naples from a high vantage point on Mount Solaro. Visitors can explore the preserved living quarters, which retain the eclectic aesthetic of the early 20th century. The gardens are designed with a specific focus on Mediterranean flora and expansive terraces offering panoramic views of the island of Capri. As of June 2026, the villa continues to function as a museum managed by the Axel Munthe Foundation. The site maintains a close connection to Swedish culture, frequently hosting concerts and cultural events.
The stone pergola at the edge of the terrace framing the Sphinx against the sea.
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the gardens feature stone paths and uneven terrain.
Carry a light sweater for the interior rooms, which stay cool due to thick stone walls.
Spend time on the terrace during clear days for the best vantage point of the Sorrento Peninsula.
Do not attempt to walk from Capri town to the villa in mid-summer heat; use the island's bus system to reach the Anacapri center first.
Open daily throughout the year, but may have reduced hours or restricted access during specific winter months or private events.
Maintain a quiet tone, as the villa serves as a place of study and reflection; photography is generally permitted without flash.
