Exploring Ancient Herculaneum: A Journey Through Time

Echoes of the Past

Today, Lena and I delved deeper into the captivating history of Herculaneum, a journey that felt like stepping back in time. The stones here whisper stories of a life interrupted, a vibrant community frozen in a moment of disaster. As we wandered through the ancient streets, hand in hand, I couldn't help but marvel at the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring allure of the past.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Umami Bakery Bistrot. I opted for a cappuccino and a cornetto, while Lena chose a selection of local pastries. The aroma of freshly baked goods and strong coffee filled the air, providing a perfect start to our explorations. It's amazing how a simple breakfast can set the tone for an entire day of adventure. It reminded me of our favorite bakery back in Berlin, though this one had a distinctly Italian charm. After fueling up, we set off to explore Villa Ruggiero.


Discover the serenity of Villa Ruggiero, an enchanting tourist attraction in Ercolano, blending nature, architecture, and history in perfect harmony.

The walk there was pleasant, with the morning sun casting a golden glow over the town. We passed locals going about their daily routines, a stark contrast to the ancient history we were about to immerse ourselves in. I made a mental note to pick up a travel adapter tomorrow; forgetting it has been a minor inconvenience, but nothing that dampened our spirits.

Villa Ruggiero, a hidden gem of Ercolano, stood as a testament to Italian elegance and historical significance. Surrounded by lush gardens, it offered a tranquil escape from the bustling streets. We strolled through the grounds, admiring the diverse flora and the intricate architectural details of the villa. It's fascinating to think about the lives that once unfolded within these walls. The villa has a more rustic appearance compared to the other eighteenth-century villas, it was used in the past mainly for agricultural activities. The symbolic element of Villa Ruggiero is the bust of San Gennaro, preserved inside a niche in the central part of the terrace on the upper floor, making the gesture of stopping the lava from Vesuvius.

History is not just a collection of dates and facts; it's a living narrative that connects us to those who came before.

Next on our itinerary was Porta Ercolano.


Explore Porta Ercolano, the iconic gateway to Pompeii, and immerse yourself in the rich history of ancient Rome amidst spectacular ruins.

As we approached the gate, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Romans. The gate, also known as the Gate of Salt, once bustled with carts and wagons carrying goods from the harbor to Naples. Standing there, I imagined the sounds of the city, the merchants haggling, and the everyday life of the people who passed through this very spot centuries ago. The Porta Ercolano necropolis, excavated between 1763 and 1838, is the best known of Pompeii's necropoleis, in use from the middle of the first century BC until the first century AD.

For lunch, we decided to try Bistrot Italia.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Bistrot Italia in Ercolano – where every meal is a celebration of tradition and taste.

A local restaurant known for its seafood and pasta dishes. We shared a plate of spaghetti alle vongole, savoring the fresh flavors of the sea. Lena, ever the artist, was particularly taken with the presentation of the dishes. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. It was a perfect spot to relax and recharge after a morning of exploration. The reviews I read beforehand were spot on – the quality of the food and the service were both exceptional. I learned that this bistrot started as a bar, which made the surprise of the great food even better!

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Viva Lo Re.


Experience the charm of Italian wine culture at Viva Lo Re, a cozy wine bar in Ercolano, offering exquisite wines and delightful bites.

A local bar known for its lively atmosphere and excellent selection of wines. We sipped on local wines, enjoying the vibrant energy of the place. The staff was friendly and the ambiance was perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. It was a great way to experience the local nightlife and soak in the culture. I read that Viva Lo Re is an ancient toast that the royal Bourbon guards echoed inside the Royal Palace of Portici. I felt a connection to history even as I enjoyed the modern atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Pizzeria Ro.Vi.


Discover authentic Neapolitan pizza at Pizzeria Ro.Vi in Ercolano – where every slice tells a story of tradition and flavor.

A popular spot known for its Neapolitan pizza. The aroma of wood-fired pizza filled the air as we entered, and the atmosphere was buzzing with energy. We ordered a classic Margherita and a Diavola, and both were cooked to perfection. The crust was crispy, the sauce was tangy, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect ending to a day of culinary delights. I even discovered that they offer gluten-free options, which is good to know for future reference. The reviews online praised their pizza, and I can attest that it lived up to the hype.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciate these moments of shared discovery with Lena. Whether we're exploring ancient ruins or simply enjoying a delicious meal, it's the connection we share that makes these experiences so meaningful. As a software developer, I often find myself immersed in the digital world, but these travels remind me of the importance of connecting with the physical world and the people around me.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Casa dell'Alcova and Villa La Favorita, continuing our exploration of Herculaneum's rich history and architectural wonders. We'll also be having breakfast at Paninoteca Mato Mato', lunch at La Briciola, and dinner at Ristorante Terrazza Quattroventi. Lena is particularly excited about visiting Mercato di Resina, where she hopes to find some unique souvenirs. I'm looking forward to capturing more memories with my camera and sharing our adventures with you all. Until then, arrivederci from Herculaneum!

I am reminded of a quote by a fellow Czech, Milan Kundera, who said: The struggle of man against power is the struggle of memory against forgetting. Exploring places like Herculaneum is our way of keeping the memory alive, honoring the past, and enriching our present.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for this journey. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing different cultures, connecting with history, and creating lasting memories with the one I love. And as we prepare for another day of exploration, I'm filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. The sun has set in Ercolano [Time at location: 03:12 PM], casting long shadows over the ancient stones, but the echoes of the past still linger in the air, reminding us of the enduring power of history and the beauty of shared experiences.