Archaeological site of Herculaneum

Port of Calls: Naples, Sorrento, Capri

Another victim of the fiery temper of Mt. Vesuvius was the village of Herculaneum, which buried under mud and lava, lives on in its uniquely preserved atmosphere. Unlike the commercial city of Pompeii, Herculaneum was a seaside resort. Dating back to the 4th century B.C., the city was thought to have been founded by the legendary Hercules. This elite Roman resort was devastated by the same volcanic eruption that buried Pompeii in 79 A.C.. Unlike the ash and lava that devastated Pompeii, Herculaneum was covered by a torrent of mud, which protected the ruins from atmospheric agents and illegal excavators. This natural preservation of wooden elements, foodstuffs, fabrics, and architecture provides a fascinating and intimate look into the Roman's private life in ancient times. The site was discovered by accident in the early 1700's when a well was being dug and workmen struck a stone pavement, the stage of the city's theater. Serious excavations began under Mussolini but only about eight blocks have been excavated. The rest is covered not only by rock but also by a dense modern neighborhood. Bringing more of Herculaneum to light is a slow operation, with new digs continuing.