Background

Casa del Bicentenario: A Glimpse into Ancient Roman Life

Explore the remarkably preserved Casa del Bicentenario in Ercolano, offering a unique glimpse into ancient Roman life before Vesuvius's eruption.

4.9

The Casa del Bicentenario in Ercolano (Herculaneum) offers a captivating look into Roman domestic life before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Excavated in 1938, exactly 200 years after the initial discoveries in Herculaneum, the house showcases well-preserved architecture, frescoes, and mosaics, providing insights into the lives of its former residents.

A brief summary to Casa del Bicentenario

  • Via dei Papiri Ercolanesi, Ercolano, Metropolitan City of Naples, 80056, IT
  • +390818575347
  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check the official website or inquire locally about current opening hours and any temporary closures due to ongoing conservation efforts.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven ancient surfaces.
  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the house's history and significance.
  • Bring water and sun protection, especially during the hot summer months, as much of the site is exposed to the elements.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the entrance of the Herculaneum archaeological site, the Casa del Bicentenario is a short walk along the Decumanus Maximus (main street). Follow the signs within the site; the house is located on the south side of the street, marked as Insula V, number 15. No additional costs are involved beyond the entrance ticket to the Herculaneum site.

  • Public Transport

    From Ercolano train station or the bus stops in Piazza Trieste, enter the Herculaneum archaeological site. Once inside, follow the Decumanus Maximus to find the Casa del Bicentenario on the south side, identified as Insula V, number 15. The entrance ticket to the archaeological site is typically €13 for adults. A short-trip ticket on local buses costs around €1.20.

Unlock the Best of Casa del Bicentenario

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Casa del Bicentenario

Casa del Bicentenario, or House of the Bicentenary, derives its name from the fact that its excavation began in 1938, two centuries after the commencement of Herculaneum's excavation in 1738. This once-grand residence provides a window into the life of a wealthy Roman family before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Originally the noblest and richest dwelling in its neighborhood, the house underwent transformations over time. The ground floor retained the traditional plan of a grand Roman house, while the upper floor showed signs of humbler dwellings, possibly rented to artisans or merchants in the city's final years. Visitors can admire the striking checkerboard fresco in red and white at the entrance, leading to the Tuscan atrium. The atrium features a mosaic floor and a central impluvium, originally adorned with a marble column supporting a fountain. The walls showcase Fourth Style paintings with intricate architectural perspectives and rich porphyry red panels. The house also features colored marble floors and paintings depicting mythological scenes. Thanks to collaborative restoration efforts, the house reopened to the public in 2019, allowing visitors to marvel at its historical and architectural splendor. However, it's important to check the current status before visiting, as conservation works may temporarily restrict access.

Popular Experiences near Casa del Bicentenario

Popular Hotels near Casa del Bicentenario

Select Currency