Parco Acheologico Di Ercolano

Welcome to the ancient city of Herculaneum, or Ercolano as it is known locally. As you stand here on this elevated walkway, you are gazing down into a literal window of history, a city that was abruptly halted in its tracks by…

Our first stop brings us to the lowest point of the excavation, which in antiquity was the very edge of the Tyrrhenian Sea. These arched structures, known as the Fornici (for-NEE-chee), were the city's boat sheds and warehouses,…

Ascending from the beach level, we reach a wide terrace dominated by a funerary altar and a commemorative statue. This area was dedicated to Herculaneum’s most distinguished citizen: Marcus Nonius Balbus (MAR-koos NO-nee-oos…

Just above the terrace of Balbus lies one of the most opulent residences in the city: the House of the Telephus Relief. This mansion is named after a stunning marble relief found here depicting the Greek hero Telephus…

We now move toward the Palaestra (pal-EYE-strah), a vast exercise yard and sports complex that remains largely buried under the volcanic debris. Looking at the sheer wall of earth surrounding this area, you get a true sense of…

Walking up Cardo V (CAR-doh quin-too) toward the main street, we encounter the more commercial side of Herculaneum life. On this street, you will see several well-preserved Thermopolia (ther-mo-PO-lee-ah)—the Roman equivalent of…

We have now reached the Decumanus Maximus (deck-oo-MAH-noos MAK-see-moos), the main thoroughfare and commercial spine of Herculaneum. In its prime, this street would have been a bustling scene of activity, lined with porticos…

Tucked away just off the main path is perhaps the most famous residence in Herculaneum: the House of Neptune and Amphitrite. This house is a favorite among visitors and scholars alike for its exceptionally vivid mosaics. …

Our final interior stop is the College of the Augustales (ow-goos-TAH-lays), a significant civic building dedicated to the imperial cult—the worship of the deified Roman emperors. This was the meeting place for the Augustales, a…

As we conclude our tour and prepare to ascend back to the modern world, take a final look across the ruins of Herculaneum. What we have seen today is more than just a collection of ancient buildings; it is a profound testament to…