The Emerald Grotto is a natural wonder discovered by chance in 1932 by a fisherman.
The best way to visit is to enter it by sea; there are numerous tour operators that organize excursions to this and other areas of the coast. Alternatively, it can be accessed via an elevator or staircase located along the SS 163 trunk road, about 3 kilometers from the town of Praiano. I recommend the first option, because it has a particular charm.
The Emerald Grotto offers an enchanting spectacle, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and rock walls with stalactites and stalagmites shaped over thousands of years by the action of the sea.
The shape of the grotto suggests that it was once located in a dry area and that the water level was influenced over time by tides and geological changes.
The cave has an almost dome-like shape that is about 30 meters in width, 60 meters in length and 24 meters in height, offering a large, majestic space for visitors to admire. Inside, your attention will immediately be caught by the color of the water.
The name "Emerald Grotto" derives from the extraordinary emerald green color of the water, an effect caused by sunlight penetrating through an underwater crevice and reflecting off the rock walls and seabed, which is enriched with distinctive marine flora. This phenomenon creates a magical atmosphere, making each visit unique. The presence of a statue of Our Lady, protectress of sailors, adds an additional touch of spirituality to this place, which is already shrouded in mystery and natural beauty.
The Emerald Grotto takes the visitor on a journey through time, nature and culture, offering a close-up experience of one of the most enchanting settings on the Amalfi Coast.
An interesting fact: In the heart of the cave, at a depth of four meters, an underwater nativity scene was set up in 1964, with ceramic figures from Vietri. Because they were not resistant to the erosion of the sea, the figures were later replaced by fiberglass replicas. Since the crib was placed, a marine procession has been held every year during the Christmas holidays, during which the figure of the Baby Jesus is solemnly placed in the manger on the seabed by a team of divers.
