Grotta di Matromania, Ancient cave formation in Capri, Italy

Grotta di Matromania is a natural cave on the island of Capri that was fitted with Roman altars, niches, and wall paintings. The chamber opens toward the sea and still displays the stone entrance staircase and the carved modifications made by ancient craftsmen.

The cave was reconstructed during the Roman imperial period and served as a Nymphaeum, a sacred space for water and nature worship. It was simultaneously dedicated to the cults of the goddess Cybele and the god Mithras, indicating diverse religious use.

The name references the worship of the goddess Cybele, whose statues and reliefs were discovered here. Visitors can still see traces of this ancient religious practice carved into the rock walls and architectural details.

Access is via a hiking trail from Capri town that passes the natural rock formation Arco Naturale. Sturdy footwear and some caution are recommended, as the path is partly steep and the cave sits at sea level.

The cave's name probably comes from Cybele, the Mater Magna of the Romans, to whom it was dedicated; a terracotta statuette of the goddess was found there. A relief of Mithras found on the plain of San Costanzo led to the alternative name Mitromania. Young Caprese couples once came to the cave after their wedding as a propitiatory rite, which gave it the name grotta del Matrimonio.