Exploring Ancient Herculaneum: A Journey Through Time

First Day Discoveries in Herculaneum

Today marked the beginning of our journey into the past, a day filled with the echoes of Roman life and the haunting beauty of a city frozen in time. Lena and I stepped into Herculaneum with a sense of anticipation, ready to explore the stories etched in its ancient stones. It’s a far cry from my usual world of coding and algorithms, but I find a different kind of logic and structure in the rise and fall of civilizations.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Pappamonte. The aroma of fresh coffee and pastries filled the air, a perfect start before diving into history. I opted for a classic cornetto and cappuccino, while Lena enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and bread. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home even with my limited Italian. Energized, we set off towards the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum.


Explore the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum, where ancient Roman life comes alive amidst stunning ruins and rich history near Naples, Italy.
As we approached the park, the imposing silhouette of Mount Vesuvius loomed in the distance, a stark reminder of the catastrophe that both destroyed and preserved this ancient city. The entrance to the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum was like stepping through a portal into another world. The remarkably preserved ruins immediately captivated us. Unlike Pompeii, which suffered significant damage during the eruption, Herculaneum was buried under a pyroclastic surge, a superheated cloud of gas and ash, which carbonized organic materials and sealed the city, preserving wooden structures, furniture, and even food.

We wandered through the ancient streets, marveling at the two-story houses, their walls still adorned with vibrant frescoes. I was particularly struck by the level of detail that remained intact. We saw carbonized wooden doors, their intricate carvings still visible, and the remains of shops with their counters and shelves. It was as if the inhabitants had simply vanished moments before, leaving their lives suspended in time. Lena, with her keen eye for design, was fascinated by the mosaics and the layout of the Roman houses. She kept remarking on how modern some of the design elements felt, a testament to the ingenuity of Roman architects.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

One of the most poignant sights was the skeletal remains of the Herculaneum victims found on the ancient shoreline, a grim reminder of the human cost of Vesuvius’s wrath. It was a sobering moment, a stark contrast to the beauty of the ruins, and it underscored the fragility of life. We paused for a moment of silence, reflecting on the lives that were abruptly cut short on that fateful day in 79 AD.

After a few hours of exploration, we decided to have lunch at ristorante pizzeria degli scavi da Ernesto. The restaurant was conveniently located near the excavation site. We shared a pizza, enjoying the simple yet authentic flavors. It was a much-needed break, and we relished the opportunity to sit and absorb the morning's experiences.

In the afternoon, we visited the MAV – Virtual Archaeological Museum.


Explore the MAV - Virtual Archaeological Museum in Ercolano, where ancient history comes alive through innovative virtual experiences and interactive exhibits.
It offered a fascinating contrast to the physical ruins we had explored earlier. The museum uses cutting-edge technology to recreate Herculaneum as it was before the eruption. Through virtual reality, holograms, and multimedia installations, we were transported back in time, walking the streets of the bustling Roman town. It was an immersive experience that brought the history to life in a way that textbooks simply cannot.

Lena was particularly impressed with the 3D reconstructions of the villas, allowing us to see the intricate details of the architecture and the opulent decorations. I found the interactive exhibits engaging, especially the simulations of the eruption, which gave us a visceral understanding of the disaster that befell Herculaneum. The MAV effectively bridged the gap between the past and the present, enhancing our appreciation of the archaeological site.

Before dinner, we stopped by Donadio Corals and Cameos.


Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of coral and cameo jewelry at Donadio Corals and Cameos, a unique gem in Portici, Italy.
Although it was a bit of a detour to Portici, Lena had read about their exquisite craftsmanship and was eager to see their collection. The shop was a treasure trove of intricate coral and cameo jewelry, each piece telling a story of tradition and artistry. Lena, with her background in graphic design, was particularly drawn to the delicate details and the timeless elegance of the designs. We spoke with the owner, who shared the history of his family's business, spanning generations of skilled artisans. While Lena admired the pieces, I appreciated the dedication and passion that went into creating each unique work of art. We ended up purchasing a small cameo pendant for Lena, a memento of our trip and a symbol of the beauty we had encountered in Herculaneum.

For dinner, we chose Ristorante Vesum, drawn by its reputation for local cuisine and its stunning views of the Bay of Naples.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Vesum in Ercolano—where traditional cuisine meets warm hospitality.
The restaurant lived up to its promise. We started with a selection of seafood appetizers, savoring the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. For our main courses, Lena opted for the pasta with clams, while I chose the grilled fish. The dishes were expertly prepared, showcasing the region's culinary heritage. As we dined, we watched the sunset over the bay, the sky ablaze with colors, casting a magical glow over the water. It was the perfect end to a day filled with history, culture, and culinary delights.

As I reflect on our first day, I am struck by the remarkable preservation of Herculaneum and the insights it offers into Roman life. It's a privilege to walk in the footsteps of those who lived here centuries ago, to imagine their daily routines, and to connect with their stories. Tomorrow, we plan to venture up Mount Vesuvius and explore Vesuvius National Park, a chance to see the landscape that shaped Herculaneum and to gain a new perspective on the forces of nature. We're booked for breakfast at Umami Bakery Bistrot, and I'm already looking forward to it.

I’m also looking forward to reflecting on the day with a drink at Terrazza Vesuvius, before dinner at La Terra d'Ercole. I am also a little worried, since I forgot to pack the travel adapter, hopefully I'll find one tomorrow. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – the opportunity to learn, to experience new things, and to create lasting memories with Lena. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings, and I am grateful for the chance to share our journey with you all.