The excavations at Herculaneum constitute one of the most important and best-preserved archaeological sites in ancient Campania, Italy. Located near the modern city of Herculaneum, near Naples, these excavations offer a valuable window into the ancient Roman world, particularly the daily life and architecture of the ancient city of Herculaneum, which was buried under the ashes of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, along with Pompeii and Stabiae.
The ancient city of Herculaneum, formerly called "Herculaneum," was founded by the Greeks in the 5th century B.C. and later became a thriving Roman colony. In 79 AD, the eruption of Vesuvius buried the city under a blanket of mud and ash, preserving it for centuries.
Excavations of Herculaneum were begun in the 18th century, when the ancient city was discovered during excavation work. The excavations uncovered streets, public and residential buildings, artwork, mosaics and everyday objects, providing an important record of life in ancient Rome.
Herculaneum's buildings show a high architectural quality and attention to detail. Among the most important are the House of the Faun, the House of the Deer, the House of the Wooden Partition, and the Villa of the Papyri, the latter renowned for its imposing peristyle and its rich library found partly preserved.
The excavations at Herculaneum provide important evidence of daily life in the ancient Roman city. The remains of workshops, baths, bakeries, private dwellings, and places of worship can be seen, providing valuable information about Roman society, eating habits, art, and culture.
The excavations at Herculaneum have undergone continuous conservation and restoration work to best preserve the archaeological finds. The site is open to visitors who can explore the ancient streets, houses, temples and theaters of the city buried under the ashes of Mount Vesuvius.
In conclusion, the excavations at Herculaneum are an extraordinary testimony to ancient Roman life and an important resource for the study of the art, architecture, and history of the period. Their visit offers a unique experience to immerse oneself in the history and culture of ancient Rome.