Built in 1371 by Giacomo Arcucci, on land donated by Queen Giovanna 1st of Angiò, the Charterhouse of San Giacomo is the oldest historic building on the Island of Capri.
If you're looking for a shady place in which to relax on a hot summer afternoon, this is the perfect place!
The entrance to the Charterhouse lies at the end of an avenue, next to a fortified tower. The Charterhouse is comprised of three blocks of buildings: one which is separate from the convent and houses the pharmacy and women's church; one for the converse monks and for the external guests with annexed granaries, stables and the monks workshops; the last block was reserved for the life of seclusion with a series of cells around Choistro Grande cloister and the other rooms encircling the smaller Chiostro Piccolo.
The Chiostro Grande follows a late renaissance plan with cross vaults on stone columns, the area at the center is organised following a geometrical design with green spaces. The Chiostro Piccolo has delicate cross vaults on Roman marble columns.
Today, the Charterhouse is seat of the Archeological Museum, the Diefenbach Museum and, during the summer, functions as venue for concerts and cultural events.
Archaeological Museum of Capri
The Archaeological Museum of Capri, housed in the Charterhouse of San Giacomo, is a treasure trove of artifacts that tell the ancient history of the island. Inaugurated with the exhibition "The Island of the Caesars: Capri from Augustus to Tiberius," the museum displays 120 artifacts including marble sculptures, frescoes, and pottery, originally held at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples and now back on the island. These artifacts illustrate Capri's rich cultural heritage and its role during the Roman era, offering visitors a captivating journey through time.
Diefenbach Museum
The Diefenbach Museum, also located in the Charterhouse of San Giacomo, is dedicated to German painter Karl Wilhelm Diefenbach, a symbolist who lived in Capri in the early 20th century. The museum's collection includes a wide range of works reflecting the artist's mystical and spiritual vision, inspired by the natural beauty of the island. Diefenbach's works, characterized by strong symbolism, offer a unique opportunity to explore the interaction between art and nature.
Charterhouse of San Giacomo opening hours
Hours:
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. July, August, September
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. April, May, October, November and December
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. January, February, March
Closed: Monday
Entrance: Entrance: Eur 6. Price reductions (visitors from 18 to 25 years old): Eur 4. Free entrance: visitors up to 18 years old. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the site, and can only be paid by credit or debit card.
Opening times and prices may change. Please check them at info-points in Marina Grande or in Piazzetta.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
Charterhouse of St. Giacomo: hours, tickets and prices
Getting there: from the Piazzetta, take via Vittorio Emanuele and then continue on via Federico Serena. Then turn left into via Certosa.
Walking time from Piazzetta: 5 minutes.
Ticket price: EUR 6. Visitors from 18 to 25 years old: Eur 4. Under 18: free. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the site, and can only be paid by credit or debit card.
Opening & Hours: every day except Monday, at the following times:
10:00 a.M. - 6:00 p.M. July, August, September
10:00 a.M. - 4:00 p.M. April, May, October, November and December
10:00 a.M. - 2:00 p.M. January, February, March