Tour in the ruins of Herculaneum with an archaeologist
At a Glance
Type
Pompeii & Archaeology
Duration
2 hours
Rating
5.0/5 (33)
Price
From ~$262/group
Fitness
Moderate - the tour requi...
Tour Details
The ancient town of Herculaneum was an holiday resort for patricians, built on a promontory overlooking the bay of Naples. Traditionally founded by the mythical hero Hercules, it was the site of rich residences among them being the famous Villa of the Papyri. The guided tour starts near the ancient beach, where excavations have recently unearthed the bodies of about 300 victims. Then you enter the city to visit the main houses, thermal baths and shops incredibly preserved and protected by the pyroclastic flow that brought them to us.
What Makes This Tour Special
This tour is led by a professional archaeologist offering expert commentary on recent findings such as the victims’ remains on the ancient shoreline, detailed explanations of building functions, and the significance of the Villa of the Papyri’s artifacts.
- Access to areas recently excavated showing human remains and artifacts.
- Guidance from an archaeologist providing in-depth historical and scientific context.
- Exploration of well-preserved thermal baths, shops, and private houses with original architectural elements.
- Opportunity to see carbonized papyri and learn about Roman literary culture.
- Smaller group sizes allowing for personalized interaction and questions.
Historical Background
Herculaneum was an ancient Roman town destroyed and buried under volcanic ash and pumice in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Unlike Pompeii, Herculaneum was a smaller, wealthier resort town favored by Roman elites, with well-preserved wooden structures and organic materials due to the distinctive pyroclastic surge that covered it.
Is This Tour Worth It?
This pompeii & archaeology activity is highly rated at 5.0/5 across 33 reviews, running 2 hours from ~$262 per group.
Best For
Families
Less ideal for: Those with limited mobility · Wheelchair users
Pros
- +Outstanding rating: 5.0/5
- +Booked through Viator
Cons
- -Cancellation policy not specified
- -Requires moderate - the tour requires walking on uneven ancient stone paths, some steps, and standing for up to two hours. fitness level
- -Higher price point
- -Inclusions not listed
