Pompeii vs Herculaneum | Everything you need to know
This collection of locations focuses on the historically significant ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both dramatically preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It also includes key points of interest in the surrounding region, such as the volcano itself, the vibrant city of Naples, and the stunning Amalfi Coast, offering a comprehensive guide for exploring this fascinating part of Italy.
Pompeii
An ancient Roman city, destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 and rediscovered in the 18th century, now a vast open-air museum.
Herculaneum
An ancient Roman city, also destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 but preserved under mud and ash, offering exceptionally well-kept ruins.
Mount Vesuvius
A currently active volcano overlooking the Bay of Naples, famous for destroying the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in AD 79.
Naples
A vibrant and historic city in Southern Italy, known for its rich culture, stunning bay, and as the birthplace of pizza.
Amalfi Coast
A stunning stretch of coastline in Southern Italy, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages, and scenic beauty.
Vesuvius
The active volcano that famously erupted in AD 79, burying the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under ash and pumice.
The Amphitheater
The oldest surviving Roman amphitheater in the world, located within the ruins of Pompeii.
The Forum
The main public square of ancient Pompeii, serving as the center of civic, religious, and commercial life.
The House of the Vettii
One of the most well-preserved houses in Pompeii, featuring stunning frescoes and mosaics that offer a glimpse into Roman domestic life.
The House of the Faun
The largest and most opulent house in Pompeii, characterized by its expansive atrium, beautiful gardens, and intricate mosaics.
The Temple of Apollo
One of the oldest and most important religious sites in Pompeii, dedicated to the god Apollo.
The Lupanar
Pompeii's most famous and well-preserved brothel, offering a stark glimpse into a different aspect of Roman social life.
The Villa of the Mysteries
A unique and mysterious site near Pompeii, featuring remarkable frescoes that possibly depict a secret religious rite.
The House of the Tragic Poet
A well-preserved house in Pompeii, known for its beautiful mosaics, including the famous 'Cave Canem' fresco.
The Baths
Several public bath complexes in Pompeii, which were an integral part of daily Roman social life.
The Garden of the Fugitives
A site in Pompeii where plaster casts of victims who died during the eruption are displayed, offering a poignant memorial.
The Villa of the Papyri
An impressive ancient villa near Herculaneum that once housed a vast library of papyrus scrolls, many of which have been carbonized.
The House of the Deer
A beautifully preserved house in Herculaneum featuring a stunning garden with statues and intricate frescoes.
The House of the Neptune and Amphitrite
Another well-preserved house in Herculaneum, notable for its beautiful mosaics, including a prominent depiction of Neptune and Amphitrite.
The Thermopolium
A remarkably well-preserved ancient fast-food restaurant in Herculaneum, providing insight into Roman cuisine and dining habits.
The College of the Augustales
A significant religious site in Herculaneum dedicated to the worship of the emperor Augustus.
The Suburban Baths
These are exceptionally well-preserved public baths in Herculaneum, showcasing original decorative features.
The Samnite House
A well-preserved ancient house in Herculaneum featuring frescoes that depict scenes from the Trojan War.
The House of the Wooden Partition
A unique house in Herculaneum characterized by an interesting wooden partition that divides living quarters from storage areas.
The House of the Mosaic Atrium
A beautiful house in Herculaneum distinguished by its stunning mosaic floor and well-preserved frescoes.
The House of the Beautiful Courtyard
A well-preserved house in Herculaneum featuring a beautiful courtyard and several notable frescoes.
Sorrento
A charming coastal town perched on cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, famous for its lemon groves and scenic beauty.
Portici
A coastal town located between Naples and Herculaneum, known for its seaside promenade and proximity to archaeological sites.
Via Liberta
A street in Portici, mentioned as a stop on the Vesuviana train line between Naples and Herculaneum.
Ercolano
The modern town that is home to the archaeological site of Herculaneum, located near Naples.
Ercolano Scavi
The train station in Ercolano that serves as the main access point for visitors to the Herculaneum ruins.
Napoli Garibaldi
Naples' main railway station, serving as a central hub for local and national train services, including the Vesuviana line.
Ristorante Pizzeria I Matti
A restaurant and pizzeria located just outside the Pompeii archaeological site, recommended for its pizza.
Gioelia
A place to get gelato in the center of Pompeii, near the Sanctuary.
Viva Lo Re
A restaurant in Herculaneum, located a short walk from the ruins, known for its satisfying Neapolitan food.
Hercvlanevm Snack Bar
A snack bar located in front of the ticket entrance for Herculaneum ruins, suitable for breakfast or aperitifs.