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Contents
Explore Herculaneum | Step into ancient Roman life
Book your tickets to Herculaneum
Herculaneum in a nutshell
- Size and scope: Herculaneum was approximately 20 hectares (one-quarter of Pompeii)
- Destruction: Herculaneum was buried under about 20 meters (65 feet) of volcanic ash and pumice during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The eruption caused significant damage, preserving the city in a state of suspended animation.
- Rediscovery: The city was accidentally rediscovered in 1709 when a well was being dug. Systematic excavations began in the 20th century, notably under the direction of Amedeo Maiuri.
- Design and layout: Herculaneum features a well-planned grid of streets with a clear urban layout. The city includes residential houses, public baths, and a theater, showcasing the daily life and urban planning of ancient Rome.
Herculaneum tickets explained
Standard entry
Guided tours
Tickets with transfers
Features
Skip-the-line entry to Herculaneum, audio guide in Italian, English, French, Spanish & German (optional), onsite/ offsite redemption of ticket (as per option selected)
2-hour guided tour of Herculaneum, expert English, Spanish, French, German, or Italian-speaking archaeologist guide (as per option selected), group of 20 or 25 people (as per option selected), skip-the-line entry to Herculaneum, headsets
One-way express transfers between Naples Porta Nolana or Porta Garibaldi train station and Herculaneum Ercolano Scavi train station, air-conditioning onboard
Why buy?
Discover at your own pace and focus on the destinations that interest you most—ideal for independent adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Enhance your experience with expert insights and captivating tales about the historic site. Perfect for history buffs.
Enjoy a stress-free trip, make the most of your time at the destination, and relax while the logistics are taken care of.
Starting from
€16
€49
€15
Recommended tickets
- Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Tickets
- Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with an Archaeologist
- From Pompeii/Naples: Pompeii & Herculaneum Guided Tour with Archaeologist
- From Pompeii/Naples: Pompeii, Herculaneum & Vesuvius Day Trip
- Campania Express One-Way Tickets: Naples Porta Nolana to/from Herculaneum
- From Naples: Herculaneum Half-Day Tour
Discovering Herculaneum’s secret treasures
Palestra (Gymnasium)
The Palestra of Herculaneum was a recreational and exercise facility, featuring a central courtyard surrounded by colonnades and rooms for physical activities. It reflects the importance of physical fitness and social interaction in Roman society.
Herculaneum Boat Sheds
Originally thought to be used for storing boats, this gained attention when over 300 skeletons were discovered inside, revealing the tragic fate of inhabitants seeking refuge during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
House of Neptune
This one is renowned for its intricate mosaics depicting scenes from Greek mythology, particularly Neptune, the god of the sea. You can admire these well-preserved floor decorations, showcasing the wealth and artistic taste of Herculaneum's elite residents.
Visit the House of Neptune
Villa of the Papyri
This villa is famous for its extensive collection of ancient papyrus scrolls, which were carbonized during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Discovered in the 18th century, these scrolls contain philosophical works by Epicurus and other ancient texts, offering valuable insights into ancient thought and culture.
Explore the Villa of the Papyri
House of the Deer
Named after a fresco depicting a stag hunt, the House of the Deer features vividly colored frescoes and intricate architectural details. It provides a glimpse into the daily life and leisure activities of Herculaneum's wealthier inhabitants.
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Thermae (Baths)
The Thermae of Herculaneum were public baths where residents could socialize, exercise, and cleanse themselves. They feature well-preserved mosaics, frescoes, and architectural elements, offering insights into Roman bathing rituals and social life.
House of the Skeleton
Named due to the discovery of a human skeleton during excavations, this house is notable for its preserved frescoes and architectural details. It offers a poignant reminder of the tragic events that befell the inhabitants of Herculaneum during the eruption.
History of Herculaneum
Early settlement and Greek influence
Herculaneum’s history began in the 6th-7th century BC with its establishment by the Oscan people. This early settlement later came under the influence of Greek culture. By the 4th century BC, the Samnites had taken control of the area, marking a significant shift in the region’s dynamics as Herculaneum continued to evolve under various cultural influences.
Roman dominance and catastrophic events
The arrival of Roman dominance in 89 BCE, following the Social War, marked a new era for Herculaneum. However, the city’s fortunes took a tragic turn in 62 AD when a devastating earthquake struck, foreshadowing the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This eruption buried Herculaneum under layers of ash and debris, preserving it in a state of suspended animation for centuries.
Rediscovery and modern exploration
Herculaneum’s remains were accidentally rediscovered in 1709, sparking initial excavations. It wasn’t until the 20th century, with systematic explorations led by Amedeo Maiuri and subsequent archaeological efforts, that the city’s ancient splendor was revived. In 1997, Herculaneum was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, and ongoing excavations continue to reveal its remarkably preserved ruins, offering a window into daily life in antiquity.
Detailed history of HerculaneumFrequently asked questions about Herculaneum
How is Herculaneum different from Pompeii?
Unlike Pompeii, which was buried under ash, Herculaneum was covered by a pyroclastic flow of hot gas and ash, which led to better preservation of organic materials like wood and even human skeletons.
How big is Herculaneum?
Although smaller than Pompeii, Herculaneum covers about 20 hectares (approximately 49 acres), and offers a rich archaeological experience.
How long does it take to visit Herculaneum?
A visit to Herculaneum can last 2-3 hours, depending on your interest in ancient history and archaeology.
Can I see Mount Vesuvius from Herculaneum?
Yes, Herculaneum offers views of Mount Vesuvius across the Bay of Naples, providing a scenic backdrop to the ancient ruins.
Is Herculaneum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Herculaneum has pathways and ramps to facilitate access for visitors with disabilities, though some areas may have uneven terrain due to the ancient ruins.
What's there for kids to enjoy during their visit?
Older kids can explore the MAV (Virtual Archaeological Museum) near Herculaneum's entrance. It offers interactive displays that recreate ancient Herculaneum and other nearby ruins with multimedia exhibits like reconstructions and holograms. Separate tickets are required for entry.
Is entry free for people with disabilities?
Yes, entry is free for individuals with disabilities and one accompanying companion, upon presenting proof of social support.
Are there people living in Herculaneum today?
No, Herculaneum is an ancient town in ruins, with no current residents. The modern towns of Ercolano and Portici are built above it, complicating further excavation efforts.
