Arriving at the summit of Monte Solaro by chair lift, the eyes of the spectator remain captivated by the joy of the consummate beauty of the Capri panorama. Often referred to as the “Cloudcatcher”, the summit of Monte Solaro, 589 meters above sea level, allows one to enjoy a splendid view which includes the Gulf of Naples.
A pleasant fifteen minute stroll through woodland of pine and chestnut takes one to the Hermitage of S. Maria di Cetrella in the valley of the same name. The name is thought to come from the Capri plant – the “cedronella”; another idea is that it is connected to the legend of a temple dedicated to Venus Citerea.
Built about 1400, the monastery of Santa Maria of Cetrella is protected by a wall with pointed glass splinters. The church has two naves: one is dedicated to Blessed Virgin Mary while the other is decorated with a 16th century painting depicting Saint Domenico. Besides the church, you can also admire the bell tower, the sacristy, the kitchen and some cells where Franciscan Friars lived and finding longed serenity and peace in these places.
Cetrella was always used by the local fishing families as a place of pilgrimage before setting out to sea on a fishing trip, therefore, the painting inside the church of Saint Maria, considered to be the protector of seafarers, is held in high regard and affection by the people of Capri.
The beauty of the small valley of Cetrella is also given by its flora. Typically Mediterranean, it is rich in pines, oaks, chestnuts, brooms, heather, euphorbia, arbutus, anemones, narcisusses and a great many other variety of flowers as well as about fifteen species of spontaneous orchids, among which we can mention the very rare Serapios Neglecta de Not.
In fact the church is consecrated and during certain times of the year (mainly May to October) is is used as a liturgical center.
One can visit the hermitage of S. Eremo during the summer thanks to a team of volunteers who give their time to allow this enchanting place to be open to the public.

How to get there:
    » Leaving Piazza Vittoria by chairlift up to Monte Solaro, then on foot up to the small valley of Cetrella.
    » From viale A. Munthe walking up a dirt road.