Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Herculaneum with Fatoumata

Echoes of the Past: My First Day in Herculaneum

Our adventure in Herculaneum began today, and what a start it has been! Stepping into this ancient city felt like traveling back in time. The remarkably preserved ruins whispered stories of Roman life, offering a tangible connection to the past that I've only ever read about in books. Fatoumata and I were both eager to explore every nook and cranny, and Herculaneum certainly didn't disappoint. It's a privilege to walk the same streets as people who lived over two thousand years ago, and I'm excited to share our experiences with you.

The crisp December air, with a slight breeze hinting at the approaching winter, made for a refreshing start as Fatoumata and I set out to explore the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum. The site was easy to reach from our hotel, Miglio D'Oro Park Hotel. I made sure I had my camera ready, though I did regret forgetting my extra memory card [cite: TripDetails]. The park itself is a marvel. Unlike Pompeii, Herculaneum was buried under a thick layer of volcanic mud and ash, which helped preserve many of its buildings and artifacts in remarkable condition. As we walked through the streets, we were struck by the level of detail still visible in the houses, shops, and public buildings.


Explore the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum, where ancient Roman life comes alive amidst stunning ruins and rich history near Naples, Italy.

We started our exploration at the central area, where our travel guidebook provided us with a map of the key locations. The houses, though roofless, still had walls adorned with vibrant frescoes and intricate mosaics, offering a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy Romans who once lived here. I was particularly fascinated by the wooden structures, such as doors and furniture, that had been carbonized by the volcanic eruption but remained intact. It was surreal to see these everyday objects, frozen in time, telling stories of a life interrupted so abruptly. I could almost imagine the families going about their daily routines, unaware of the impending disaster. I was also impressed by how manageable Herculaneum is compared to Pompeii. It's much smaller, making it easier to navigate and explore thoroughly, especially with the winter opening hours.

History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view.

After a few hours of wandering through the archaeological site, we decided to grab a quick lunch at Ristorante Vesum. The restaurant was conveniently located near the park, and its lovely view of the Gulf of Naples was very appealing. We enjoyed delicious pizzas while taking in the scenery. The combination of fresh ingredients and traditional Neapolitan flavors was a perfect midday treat. It was interesting to learn that the restaurant’s name is inspired by the Latin name for Vesuvius, aiming to offer an illuminating dining experience.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Vesum in Ercolano—where traditional cuisine meets warm hospitality.

Next on our list was the MAV – Virtual Archaeological Museum. This museum offered a completely different perspective on Herculaneum, using cutting-edge technology to recreate the city as it was before the eruption. As a software developer, I was particularly impressed by the virtual reality experiences and 3D films that brought the ancient world to life. Fatoumata and I spent a couple of hours exploring the interactive exhibits, which provided a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Herculaneum. It was fascinating to see how the latest technology could enhance our appreciation of the past. I would recommend bringing your smartphone to enhance your experience.


Explore the MAV - Virtual Archaeological Museum in Ercolano, where ancient history comes alive through innovative virtual experiences and interactive exhibits.

One of the museum's highlights was the reconstruction of the Villa dei Papiri, which we planned to visit later in the day. The MAV gave us a virtual tour of the villa, showcasing its exquisite architecture, stunning sculptures, and unique library of papyrus scrolls. It was amazing to learn that the villa was once considered one of the most luxurious houses in Herculaneum and the Roman world.


Explore the historical grandeur of Villa dei Papiri in Ercolano, Italy, where ancient art and culture come to life amidst stunning archaeological treasures.

Leaving the MAV, we headed towards the actual Villa dei Papiri. Unfortunately, we discovered that it was closed for restoration. Although we couldn't explore the villa in person, knowing its history and significance made the visit worthwhile. It was first discovered in 1750 by well diggers and was thought to have possibly belonged to Julius Caesar’s father-in-law. The villa’s name comes from its unique library of papyri scrolls. I was particularly intrigued by the fact that the Getty Villa in Malibu, California, is a replica of the Villa dei Papiri. It's a testament to the villa's architectural and artistic significance.

Before dinner, we took a stroll through the local shops. We stopped by Donadio Corals and Cameos, a jewelry store known for its exquisite hand-carved cameos and coral pieces. Fatoumata admired the intricate designs and craftsmanship, while I appreciated the artistry involved. Although we didn't make a purchase, it was a delightful experience to see these unique pieces of Italian jewelry. I was impressed to read later that the brand has been around since 1885, keeping the tradition alive.


Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of coral and cameo jewelry at Donadio Corals and Cameos, a unique gem in Portici, Italy.

For dinner, we chose La Terra d'Ercole, a restaurant recommended for its authentic local cuisine. We shared a variety of dishes, including spaghetti, fish, and grilled salads. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Herculaneum, savoring the flavors of Italy while reflecting on the incredible history we had encountered.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at La Terra d'Ercole, famous for its delicious pizzas and welcoming atmosphere in Ercolano.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to stop by Hercvlanevm Snack Bar for a nightcap. It was a cozy spot to relax and unwind after a day of exploration. While it has mixed reviews, we found it to be a convenient place to grab a quick drink before heading back to our hotel.


Experience the authentic taste of Ercolano at Hercvlanevm Snack Bar, where local flavors and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.

Reflecting on our first day, I realized that Herculaneum is more than just an archaeological site; it's a window into the past, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the people who once called this city home. The combination of well-preserved ruins, virtual reality experiences, and delicious Italian cuisine made for an unforgettable day. I am glad that we visited the MAV before exploring the archeological site.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Mount Vesuvius and Vesuvius National Park [cite: Itinerary of tomorrow]. I am looking forward to seeing the volcano that played such a significant role in shaping the history of Herculaneum. I’m also looking forward to breakfast at Ristorante Terrazza Quattroventi [cite: Itinerary of tomorrow].

I hope you enjoyed reading about our first day in Herculaneum. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our exploration of this fascinating region of Italy.

À bientôt!

Moussa