Villa Jovis

Fearing assassination, Emperor Tiberius left Rome for Capri and ruled from this magnificent—and secluded—spot on Monte Tiberio on the northeast side of the island from A.D. 27 to A.D. 37. Named after Jupiter (Jove), the villa was conceived as a fortress, and the well-preserved complex includes terraces, chambers and cisterns, along with an incredible viewing platform, the Salto di Tiberio, complete with a nearly 1,000-foot drop. Local lure claims that Tiberius pushed several of his enemies, as well as some unfortunate mistresses, to their deaths from this balcony. The villa can be reached via a thirty-minute walk on a path that snakes through town and past some beautiful villas, most with elaborate gardens. Come early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat.