Throughout October, visits to the underground route of the Herculaneum theater continue. Visitors can transform into real explorers with helmets, capes, and torches to discover the history of the ancient city on a true journey through time via eighteenth-century tunnels, accompanied by Park staff as part of a special project funded by ticket proceeds.

 

“The theater is located in a crucial area for stitching together both ancient and modern Herculaneum, where we have concentrated urban regeneration efforts to create new public spaces in collaboration with the Municipality and the Packard Humanities Institute. The theater area is also a privileged access point to the famous Resina market and the historic center of Herculaneum. Thus, the Park interprets its social role as a catalyst. The visit will be a true exploration experience,” says Director Sirano, “following the tracks of visitors who over the centuries crossed the wells and galleries created by Bourbon army engineers lit by torchlight. An underground route that transports us back centuries and makes us protagonists of a discovery that renews itself every time before our astonished eyes.”

Francesco Sirano, Director of the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum

There are six visiting shifts planned for groups of up to 10 people. Visits occur on Saturdays at 09:00, 10:00 (English tour), 11:00, 14:00, 15:00 (English tour), and 16:00.

Tickets can be purchased online on the Coopculture website and directly at the Park’s ticket office.

For more info, visit https://www.coopculture.it/it/prodotti/ingressi-al-teatro-antico-di-ercolano/

 

INFORMATION FOR THE VISIT
  • The route is underground and reaches about 25 meters below street level.
  • The visit is reserved for adults.
  • The meeting point is at the ticket office of the Archaeological Park 30 minutes before the start of your visit.
  • The flooring is wet in several places and slippery due to the presence of calcareous sediments and water. Additionally, the route includes many steps. Therefore, it is not suitable for claustrophobic individuals or those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those with conditions that could be affected by the visit.
  • Bags and other personal belongings will be stored in designated lockers.
  • Helmets, hair caps, capes, and torches will be provided by the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum for use during the visit.
  • Closed, sturdy, waterproof shoes are mandatory. Trekking shoes are preferred.