Overview
The Grotta dello Smeraldo is a partially submerged sea cave near Conca dei Marini, about 5 km west of Amalfi. Sunlight refracts off the limestone floor, filling the cave with an eerie emerald-green glow.
Highlights
- Emerald light effect: the water glows an intense green, especially on sunny mornings.
- Stalactites and stalagmites: impressive formations meet above and below the water surface.
- Underwater nativity scene: ceramic figurines placed on the cave floor by local divers in 1956.
History
Discovered in 1932 by a local fisherman, the cave was formed when the coastline subsided, partially submerging what was once a dry cavern.
Visitor Tips
- Access: by elevator from the coast road or by boat from Amalfi harbour.
- Best conditions: visit on a sunny morning for the most vivid reflections.
- Duration: about 20 minutes for the guided boat tour inside.