There is a corner of Gaeta where the sea is tinged with emerald and the rock holds memories of pirates and miracles. Going down into the Grotta del Turco is not just a scenic walk: it is a journey inside a legend that has fascinated saints, sailors and even Hollywood directors.
If the Montagna Spaccata looks skyward, the Grotta del Turco takes you to the heart of the sea. Located to the left of the Sanctuary, this fissure is accessible via a long and impressive staircase of 272 steps that will lead you down to the water level. Here, thanks to an imposing natural arch, light filters through creating reflections ranging from deep green to turquoise, making the atmosphere almost unreal.
The Pirate’s Haven (The Story) Why is it called that? The name is not a figment of the imagination. In the 9th century, during the time of the Duchy of Gaeta, this protected cove was the perfect hiding place for Saracen pirate ships. Corsair boats would enter the cavern to make themselves invisible from the open sea, ready to spring out to surprise attack passing merchant ships. A place of ambush and danger, it has now become an oasis of beauty.
The Hand of the “Unbeliever” (The Legend) The real reason why thousands of visitors descend these steps, however, is an eerie detail carved into the right wall. It is the famous Hand of the Turk. The legend tells of an “unfaithful” sailor (a Turk, in fact) who, upon going ashore and hearing the sacred tale that the mountain was split when Christ died, laughed with gusto. “If it is true that this rock split open for a God, then become soft as wax!” he exclaimed, leaning his hand against the wall in defiance. In that instant, the rock really melted under his fingers. The man retracted his hand in terror, but the imprint of the five fingers remained there, forever carved into the rock. It is still visible and tangible today, accompanied by a plaque commemorating the incident.
Gaeta as Westeros (The Cinema) The dramatic beauty of this place has transcended national borders. The Grotta del Turco is so scenic that in June 2019 HBO chose it as the location for the filming of Bloodmoon, the prequel to the popular series The Iron Throne. For a few days, Gaeta was transformed into an armored fantasy set, confirming that this setting really has something magical and out of time.
Visiting Info The descent is challenging but well worth it. Remember that access to the Grotto follows the hours of the Shrine of the Holy Trinity.
- Hours: 09:00-12:00 and 14:00-16:45 (Always check seasonal variations).
- Closing: Often on Mondays, but ask Enea for confirmation in chat so you don’t miss! Hours change!
