“Archaeology in the Making”
The Herculaneum Archaeological Park is participating in the 2026 European Days of Archaeology (EEA) with a rich program, an initiative promoted at the European level by INRAP – Institut national de recherches archéologiques préventives – under the aegis of the French Ministry of Culture and with the patronage of the Council of Europe, coordinated in Italy by the Central Institute for Archaeology (ICA).
The 2026 edition is dedicated to the theme “Archeologia in corso / Archaeology in the Making,” which focuses on the research process, opening up to the public the sites and practices of archaeological work: construction sites, laboratories, warehouses, and archives. True to this spirit, the Ercolano Archaeological Park offers three days of meetings, educational activities, and outreach that combine scientific rigor with community outreach.
THE HEART OF THE PROGRAM: THE STUDY DAY AT VILLA SORA
“The European Archaeological Days represent a valuable opportunity to share with the public not only the results of research, but also the daily work that enables the understanding and protection of archaeological heritage. This year’s theme, “Archaeology in Progress,” fully embodies the mission of the Herculaneum Archaeological Park: to open construction sites, laboratories, and research centers, demonstrating how the past continues to speak through new discoveries and new research methodologies. From activities at Villa Sora to special visits to the thermal baths, to initiatives dedicated to the “From Eggs to Apples” exhibition, we have developed a program that focuses on participation, knowledge, and dialogue with the community, making visitors protagonists in the process of discovering cultural heritage.” States Federica Colaiacomo, Director of the Herculaneum Archaeological Park.
The most eagerly awaited event will take place on Friday 12 June 2026: a day of study entirely dedicated to the results of the archaeological investigations at Villa Sora (2025–2026 campaign), at Palazzo Vallelonga, Torre del Greco (NA).
Villa Sora is an area of extraordinary importance within the Roman coastal settlement system in the Gulf of Naples. Recent excavations conducted by the Herculaneum Archaeological Park, in collaboration with the Packard Humanities Institute (PHI), have yielded previously unpublished data on the villa’s leisure activities, the resumption of life after the eruption of 79 AD, and its mosaic decoration and frescoes, opening up new interpretative horizons for the ancient landscape.
The day, scientifically coordinated by Domenico Camardo, Marina Caso and Federica Colaiacomo (Director of the Herculaneum Archaeological Park), is divided into two work sessions.
The event is organized in collaboration with the Municipality of Torre del Greco and the Banca di Credito Popolare di Torre del Greco.
Guided tours of Villa Sora
10:30 AM – 12:45 PM | June 13 and 14, 2026 | Villa Sora, Torre del Greco (NA)
On Saturday, June 13th and Sunday, June 14th, in keeping with the GEA 2026 theme “Archaeology in Progress,” the Villa Sora archaeological site will be exceptionally open to the public with guided tours led by the Vesuvius Archaeological Group. At the conclusion of the study day on Friday, June 12th, visitors will be able to observe the construction site and the results of the archaeological investigations up close, experiencing the sites and practices of research firsthand. Reservations are required: archeotorre@gmail.com – cell. +39 379 2196736.