Herculaneum

Step into life before the Vesuvius eruption with a visit to Herculaneum (Ercolano in Italian). This ancient Roman town lies in the shadows of Mount Vesuvius and was once wealthier than Pompeii. Both towns were destroyed by volcanic flows in 79 AD. Pompeii is well-preserved but Herculaneum is even more so - the eruption preserved doors, bedding, and even food here. This UNESCO World Heritage Site allows you to explore several villas and taverns and examine the mosaics and frescoes preserved for centuries by volcanic water, ash, and debris.