Nestled at the tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula lies Punta Campanella, a place steeped in myth and history. Believed to be the site of the ancient Greek temple dedicated to the Sirens, whose mythical foundation is attributed to Odysseus, Punta Campanella offers a captivating journey through time and nature.

Getting to Punta Campanella

A delightful hike is the only way to reach Punta Campanella, following a trail of approximately one hour on the northern slope of the Promontorium Minervae, separating the Gulf of Naples from the Gulf of Salerno. The trail is part of the Path of Athena, a loop circuit connecting Punta Campanella to Mount San Costanzo.

Starting from Piazza Santa Croce in Termini, take Via Campanella. After about 400 meters, at the junction, continue right towards the ancient Via Minerva, a Greco-Roman mule track built in the 4th century BC and still partially paved with Roman basalt. Along the descent, you’ll find a detour on the right to Cala di Mitigliano, a cove with a pebble beach overlooking Capri. However, for Punta Campanella, continue straight ahead.

As the vegetation becomes sparser, glimpses of the island of Capri appear, while on the right, you’ll spot the Tower of Fossa di Papa. The path then becomes steeper, revealing stretches of well-preserved Roman pavement covered with asphalt since 1962.

The Tower of Minerva: Between History and Religion

Finally, the tower and lighthouse of Punta Campanella come into view: the tower, made of gray tuff, stands on the site that likely housed a temple dedicated to Athena – Minerva in antiquity, founded by the Greeks and later inherited by the Romans. The presence of a temple is evidenced by the archaeological ruins still visible around the tower.

Also known as Torre Minerva, the tower was built on the orders of Robert of Anjou between 1334 and 1335, then rebuilt in 1556 after its destruction by the Turks. Strategically located, the tower served for pirate spotting and was part of a system of watchtowers and defense built along the entire coast and the interior of the Sorrentine Peninsula. A bell was rung in case of an alarm, likely giving Punta Campanella its name.

From here, Capri appears so close that it seems within reach.

On the left side of the tower, a descent leads with some difficulty to the Grotta delle Sirene (Cave of the Sirens). Halfway down, a rock inscription in Oscan language from the first half of the 2nd century BC is carved, demonstrating the presence of Italic populations in an area always believed to be occupied by the Greeks.

Experience the Magic of Punta Campanella

The Punta Campanella trail offers not only a physical journey through stunning landscapes but also a spiritual and historical exploration of ancient civilizations. Step into the footsteps of Odysseus and immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Punta Campanella.