Discovering Herculaneum: A Journey Through Time in the Shadow of Vesuvius

Herculaneum was once a thriving Roman city of about 4,000–5,000 people, located just 5 miles (8 km) from modern Naples. Founded by Oscans and later influenced by Greeks and Samnites, it became a Roman municipium in 89 BCE. The city met its tragic end in AD 79 when the eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried it under a thick layer of pyroclastic flow. Unlike Pompeii, which was covered in volcanic ash, Herculaneum was encased in compact volcanic material, preserving not only stone structures but also wood, food and even textiles. This remarkable preservation gives modern-day visitors an intimate glimpse into Roman life rarely found at other archaeological sites.

Top Things to Do and See at Herculaneum

While wandering the quiet streets of Herculaneum, there is a wealth of interesting sites to explore. From luxurious villas to humble shops, these locations give visitors a vivid picture of life in the city before the cataclysmic explosion.

1. Men’s Baths (Thermae)

An exceptionally preserved bath complex, the Men’s Baths offer a glimpse into the social center of Roman life. Here, citizens gathered not only to bathe, but also to socialize, conduct business and relax. Intricate mosaics and functional heating systems still remain, demonstrating the advanced engineering of the Romans.