Grotta dello Smeraldo, Conca dei Marini
The Emerald Grotto in Conca dei Marini, near Amalfi, is among the most characteristic karst caves in Campania, its uniqueness stemming from the color of the water and the thousands of crystalline reflections created when the sun's rays filter into the cave.
About the Grotta dello Smeraldo on the Amalfi Coast
The Emerald Cave is located in the territory of the municipality of Conca dei Marini; it is a karst cavity partially invaded by the sea. In 1932 it was discovered by the fisherman Luigi Buonocore; it measures about 45 x 32 meters and is about 24 meters high; it takes its name from the emerald hues that the water takes on because of the sunlight filtered through an underwater fissure that connects it on the outside with the open sea. In very ancient times it was set above sea level, and inside now there are numerous stalactites and stalagmites, which come together to form the mighty columns about 10 meters high.
Facts about Emerald Cave
In 1956, an underwater nativity scene, consisting of ceramic figurines, was set up on its seabed; annually, during the Christmas season, a group of divers lay bundles of flowers at the feet of the baby Jesus.
The cave was used as a film set for the TV drama Capri.
Quando visitare la grotta dello Smeraldo
The best time of day to visit the Emerald Cave is around 1:00 p.m., in fact at this time the reflections of the sun's rays will make the color of the water spectacular.
Also, since the cave is quite small, and therefore few boats can enter it at one time, it is essential to visit the cave at the least crowded times of the year.
So it is not the best, in terms of waiting time, to visit the cave during the peak season period of August.
How much does it cost to visit the Emerald Grotto?
There are unfortunately no discounts or tickets for large groups; the single ticket price is €7.00 per person.
Is the Emerald Cave always open?
Opening hours: every day of the year except holidays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
NOTE: Emerald Grotto remains closed in case of bad weather, and therefore bad sea conditions.
How to get to the Emerald Grotto
The Emerald Grotto can be reached on foot; in fact, for those arriving from Amalfi or Positano, it is possible to leave your car in a small parking lot along the SS 163 and from there walk down to the grotto via stairs or by elevator.
After paying the tickets, the cave is accessed by means of small rowing boats on which the guided tour takes place.
