Capri: the emperor who never returns

AD 26: Tiberius leaves Rome for Campania, settles on Capri and from there rules the state by letters.

Transcript

AD twenty-six. Tiberius is sixty-seven.

He has ruled Rome for twelve years. Now he leaves for Campania.

According to Tacitus, he goes to dedicate temples.

In truth he wants out of Rome. He picks Capri.

The island has steep cliffs and one small beach.

Twelve villas stand here. The largest bears the name of Jupiter.

From more than two hundred kilometers away, he rules by letters.

For eleven years he stays out of Rome.

Rome has an emperor it cannot see.