Private Pompeii & Herculaneum Tour from Positano: Uncover Ancient Treasures

The Herculaneum Archaeological Park offers a unique and intimate glimpse into Roman life, distinguished from Pompeii by its extraordinary state of preservation. Buried by pyroclastic surges that sealed the city under nearly 20 meters of volcanic material, it features remarkably intact carbonized wood, textiles, and upper floors, revealing a vertical dimension of ancient architecture rarely seen elsewhere. As a smaller, wealthier residential retreat, the site is characterized by luxurious villas and vibrant mosaics, providing a sophisticated portrait of a Roman seaside town frozen in time.

The House of the Deer (Casa dei Cervi) is one of the most elegant and panoramic villas in Herculaneum, overlooking the ancient coastline. It is named after two exquisite marble statues of stags being attacked by hunting dogs, found in its large courtyard garden. Unlike the more traditional houses in Pompeii, this residence features a sophisticated layout centered around a central terrace, adorned with high-quality frescoes and intricate floor mosaics. It perfectly represents the luxurious lifestyle of the Roman upper class, designed to blend architectural beauty with stunning views of the Gulf of Naples.

The House of the Skeletons (Casa degli Scheletri) in Herculaneum is a fascinating example of a compact yet luxurious urban dwelling. It is named after the human remains discovered in the upper rooms during 19th-century excavations, providing a poignant reminder of the tragedy in 79 AD. Despite its relatively small size, the house is remarkably sophisticated, featuring a private nymphaeum and a courtyard decorated with vibrant mosaics and precious marble. One of its standout features is a small shrine (lararium) covered in blue glass tesserae, showcasing the high level of craftsmanship even in more modest-sized residences.

The College of the Augustales (Sede degli Augustali) is one of the most significant public buildings in Herculaneum, serving as the headquarters for the freedmen dedicated to the cult of Emperor Augustus. The square-plan hall is world-renowned for its magnificent Fourth Style frescoes, particularly the central panel depicting Hercules entering Olympus accompanied by Hera and Athena. Its architectural grandeur and high-quality decorations reflect the social importance of wealthy former slaves, who used this space to express their loyalty to Rome and elevate their status within the community.

The Central Thermae of Herculaneum are a remarkably well-preserved bathing complex, divided into distinct sections for men and women. Built during the Augustan era, they feature stunning black-and-white floor mosaics depicting maritime themes, such as a famous Triton surrounded by dolphins in the women's changing room. Because Herculaneum was buried by pyroclastic flows rather than ash, the complex retains incredible architectural details, including the original vaulted ceilings and the carbonized wooden shelves once used by bathers to store their clothes.

The Salone della Barca (Hall of the Boat) is a striking room located within the House of the Relief of Telephus in Herculaneum. It takes its name from the incredible discovery of a large carbonized wooden boat found just outside the house near the ancient shoreline, but the room itself is famous for its unique suspended "maritime" decorations. The hall is a masterpiece of Roman luxury, featuring walls covered in precious colored marble (opus sectile) and a ceiling that was originally decorated with a complex wooden structure, reflecting the high status of its owners who lived overlooking the sea.

The House of the Wooden Partition (Casa del Tramezzo di Legno) in Herculaneum is world-renowned for the incredible preservation of its organic materials, specifically the carbonized wooden folding door that still stands between the atrium and the tablinum. This rare piece of ancient carpentry, complete with its original hinges and lamp hooks, provides an unprecedented look at Roman interior design. The house further impresses with its grand two-story facade and elegant mosaic floors, serving as one of the most complete examples of a high-status Roman residence frozen in time.

Return transfer to Positano by private vehicle