Via Krupp, Serpentine footpath in Capri, Italy
Via Krupp is a footpath that winds down a limestone cliff in tight switchbacks, connecting the Gardens of Augustus to Marina Piccola beach. The trail consists of stone steps and curved sections bordered by rock walls, descending roughly 100 meters with multiple hairpin turns.
A German industrialist had this path built between 1900 and 1902 by engineer Emilio Mayer as a private connection to the coast. The construction demonstrates early engineering techniques and was a symbol of foreign wealth reshaping the island during that period.
The path carries the name of the German industrialist who commissioned it, reflecting how wealthy visitors once reshaped the island to suit their needs. As you descend, you notice the craftsmanship throughout, with stone steps and curves that speak to an era when such passages represented privilege.
Wear sturdy walking shoes on this path, as the narrow curves can be slippery and visibility is important in tight sections. Bring plenty of water in warm months, since the route lacks shade and the descent requires physical effort.
When viewed from the Gardens of Augustus above, the switchbacks appear to stack directly on top of each other, creating a stair-step optical pattern. This visual effect results from the regular spacing of the curves and the vantage point from above.
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