Faraglioni, Rock formations in Capri, Italy

The Faraglioni are three limestone sea stacks off Capri's southern coast, named Stella, Mezzo and Scopolo. Mezzo, the middle stack, is the tallest and is joined to the island by a short arch; Stella stands nearest the shore, and Scopolo, the smallest, lies furthest out. A natural arch pierces Mezzo at water level, and boats pass beneath it.

These rock formations took shape over millions of years through marine erosion and weathering that gradually sculpted the limestone. Since their formation, they have served as landmarks for seafarers and became symbols of the island's natural character.

The Faraglioni serve as the defining symbol of Capri, shaping how locals and visitors understand the island's identity. They feature prominently in everyday conversations and local storytelling, linking the community to the sea.

The rocks can be viewed from several vantage points scattered across the island or accessed via guided boat tours that circle the natural stone arches. A boat trip offers the best experience, especially to navigate through the passages between the formations.

The blue lizard of Scopolo, Podarcis siculus coeruleus, is a colour variant of the Italian wall lizard; its blue skin results from a genetic condition rather than a separate species. The population lives on the smallest of the three Faraglioni, the one the arch passes through.