Discover Ercolano

Ercolano combines impressive archaeology with unusual insights into the Roman past and a volcanically shaped landscape. Those looking for a holiday apartment in Ercolano will find a destination where a day can be shaped in very different ways, combining an ancient city, modern interpretation, historic villas and nature experiences.

Ancient Ercolano and the Villa dei Papiri

The archaeological site of Ercolano makes it possible to reconstruct the everyday life of an ancient city at a specific point in history. In the excavated city, the decumani run parallel to the coast, while the cardines are arranged perpendicular to them. The preserved complex includes streets, villas, shops, baths and places of worship. Together with Pompeii and Oplontis, Ercolano is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the notable buildings is the ancient theatre, which could accommodate around 2,500 people. The Villa dei Papiri remains buried beneath the modern city in volcanic material and was extensively explored through underground tunnels in the 18th century. It was named after the discovery of more than 1,800 carbonised papyrus scrolls associated with a large ancient library. The suburban baths of Ercolano are also remarkable: they are among the best-preserved Roman bath complexes in the world.

Experience history through different approaches

The MAV is aimed at visitors who want to discover archaeology not only through excavated buildings. The museum combines archaeology and technology to create an immersive visitor experience. Virtual reconstructions, holograms and interactive installations recreate everyday life in the Roman cities of Pompeii and Ercolano. More than 70 multimedia installations offer an alternative to touring the ancient city.

Another historical highlight is Villa Campolieto. It was built on behalf of Prince Luzio De Sangro, Duke of Casacalenda; in 1755, he commissioned Mario Gioffredo to design and carry out the work. The rear opens onto an elliptical portico with Tuscan columns, creating a covered viewpoint overlooking the sea. After six years of restoration, the villa was reopened for public use. The Basilica di Santa Maria di Pugliano is the oldest church in Ercolano and in the wider Vesuvius area.

Volcanic landscapes and distinctive local experiences

Those who would like to include some activity alongside culture can consider nature trail no. 5, “Il Gran Cono”. The trail begins at 1,000 metres above sea level in the municipality of Ercolano and leads across volcanic ash, lapilli and small lava flows created during the effusive phases of the 1944 eruption. From the summit, there are views of the Gulf of Naples and the city of Naples. This creates two clearly contrasting experiences when planning a trip: the structured ancient city and a trail through volcanically shaped terrain.

Ercolano’s centre is also home to the Resina Market, a market for vintage and retro fashion. It emerged during the Second World War, when objects and clothing from passing American transport trains were sold. For families and other travel groups, this contrast between major historical sites, technological interpretation, nature and a local market may be precisely what determines which accommodation location suits their daily rhythm.

Plan Ercolano as a base

The archaeological park can be reached from Naples Central Station by taking the Circumvesuviana to Ercolano Scavi station and then walking for six minutes. By car, the route follows the A3 Naples–Salerno motorway and the Ercolano Scavi exit. When choosing a holiday apartment, travellers can therefore first decide whether their trip should focus primarily on archaeology, a variety of cultural activities or the volcanic landscape. This keeps the choice of accommodation oriented towards the desired experiences without presupposing a particular location or amenities.

Other places in the surrounding area

For further trip planning, you can also consider San Paolo Bel Sito, Capri, Termini-Massa Lubrense, Boscotrecase, Pozzuoli, Sant'agata Sui Due Golfi, Casalnuovo Di Napoli and Procida.

For the higher-level travel overview: Naples.