Herculaneum Archaeological Park: why it’s famous, what to see, and how much admission costs

Campania holds an exceptional artistic, cultural, and scenic heritage. Naples, in particular, draws millions of tourists each year. However, just a short distance away, visitors can discover other treasures, such as the archaeological site of Herculaneum.

Although less renowned than the Pompeii excavations, Herculaneum is a must-visit for those planning a trip to Naples, as it is easily accessible by train. Here’s everything you need to know about the archaeological park of Herculaneum.

In the beginning, there was Herculaneum

Ancient Herculaneum stood facing the sea, with the majestic giant of Vesuvius looming behind it, now known to all. There are two versions regarding the origins of Herculaneum: the first, rooted in mythology, suggests that Hercules was the founder of the city, having stopped here on his return from Iberia. The historian Strabo, however, traces the foundation of Herculaneum to various phases of occupation by different Italic peoples.

It is estimated that the city’s size was modest, covering roughly 20 hectares with a population of around 4,000 inhabitants. The Augustan era marked a time of great urban renewal, but in 62 AD, a terrible earthquake caused significant damage. However, this earthquake paled in comparison to the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, which obliterated both Herculaneum and the nearby Pompeii.

Thanks to the excavations commissioned by King Bourbon in the 1700s, the remains of the ancient city began to emerge through a series of shafts and tunnels. Excavations resumed in 1828 and continued until 1875. After another interruption, they restarted in 1927 under the guidance of the renowned archaeologist Amedeo Maiuri.

What to see at the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum?

The Archaeological Park of Herculaneum, as one might expect, is home to an authentic treasure trove of artifacts, villas, tools, everyday objects, and even human remains. One of its most significant sites is the Villa of the Papyri, still buried beneath the modern city, although it was first explored in the 18th century. 

Part of its atrium was uncovered between 1996 and 1998. A remarkable discovery was made in 2007 when the seaside pavilion was excavated, revealing the remains of exquisite wooden furniture. The villa’s name comes from the discovery of 1,800 charred papyrus scrolls. Other treasures preserved within the villa include sculptures. While mentioning the Villa of the Papyri is essential, it should be noted that the site is currently closed to the public.

A different story unfolds with “The House of the Hotel.” This is the largest house among those explored in the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum. It is believed to have been constructed during the Augustan period, between 27 and 14 BC. The house features a thermal bath and is adorned with frescoes. Its floors were crafted using the opus sectile technique, which involved the use of marble and cut glass paste to create intricate inlaid flooring and wall decorations.

The main thermal complex of ancient Herculaneum is known as the Forum Baths. Scholars suggest that the baths were constructed during the Julio-Claudian period, around the early first century. The baths were divided into areas for men and women.

The College of the Augustals housed a brotherhood of priests devoted to the worship of Emperor Augustus and his successors. Some wooden beams from the College, though charred, have been preserved. The walls are decorated with frescoes depicting mythological scenes.

The Fornici of the Harbour are a poignant reminder of the tragedy caused by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the human suffering that followed. Over 300 people sought refuge from the rain of ash and pumice here, hoping that rescue would come by sea, an hope that was never realised. The pyroclastic surge brought death in its wake, and even now, the skeletal remains of those who perished still lie in the same position in which they died.

A visit to the Herculaneum Theatre offers an underground experience, where visitors don helmets, cloaks, and torches to explore the ancient city. The tour is open only to those aged 18 and over. Hiking boots are recommended, and closed, low, waterproof, and sturdy shoes are compulsory.

How much does admission to the Herculaneum Archaeological Park cost?

You can access the Herculaneum Archaeological Park via the gates on Corso Resina and Via dei Papiri Ercolanesi. The archaeological site is open every day of the week, but the closing time varies depending on the season.

From 16 March to 14 October, the park opens at 8:30 a.m. and closes at 7:30 p.m., with the last entry at 6:00 p.m. From 15 October to 15 March, the park opens at 8:30 a.m. and closes at 5:30 p.m., with the last entry at 6:30 p.m.

The entrance fee for the Herculaneum Archaeological Park is €16.00. There is also a reduced price of €2.00 for visitors under 25 years old. On certain occasions, such as national holidays, entry is free. Tickets can be purchased online through the park’s website.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini

Tag

Curiosities

Parks and Nature

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