Our second stop in Anacapri is the captivating Red House, an eye-catching building renowned for its vibrant color and unique architecture. Constructed between 1876 and 1899 by American Colonel John Clay MacKowen,  the Red House is a fascinating example of eclectic style, blending various architectural elements.

The intensely red building showcases architectural details ranging from Neo-Gothic to Renaissance, with Moorish influences. MacKowen, a passionate collector of art and archaeology, enriched the red house with numerous artifacts found on the island of Capri and in surrounding regions.

Inside, the Red House hosts a permanent exhibition that narrates the island's history through archaeological finds, paintings, and historical photographs. Particularly noteworthy are the Roman statues discovered in the Blue Grotto, displayed on the first floor. These statues, dating back to the Roman Imperial period, were recovered from the sea and meticulously restored.

The upper floor of the Red House is dedicated to a collection of paintings depicting Capri in the 19th and 20th centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's life and landscapes through the eyes of the artists who were inspired by it.

Visiting the Red House is not just a cultural experience but also a journey through the history and traditions of Capri, told through the objects and artworks passionately collected by MacKowen.