Herculaneum / Mt. Vesuvius
Aug 25th, 2007, 05:05 PM
#2
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Herculaneum is a much smaller site than Pompeii, (the modern city covers much of the ancient ruins) but is in some ways better preserved. It was also a resort city and so differs in type from Pompeii. So yes, anyone with an interest in Roman history would enjoy having seen both.
Can't comment on Vesuvius.
Can't comment on Vesuvius.
Aug 26th, 2007, 04:16 AM
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On one of our visits to Italy, my cousin, who lives in Ercolano, recommended a Herculaneum visit for us instead of Pompeii. This was shortly after and at the time of excavation (some was still being done when we were there) and National Geographic was still there taking photos. She suggested it because it was a more recent excavation, smaller in size and less crowded (at that time - don't know about now). She accompanied us and also hired a tour guide. I think about 2-3 hours or so is about right, depending on crowds and your interests. We enjoyed it and have not yet seen Pompeii!
Several years ago, we drove up to Vesuvious - we enjoyed that also. It was an interesting drive up and there were spectacular views of the Bay from the parking lot. We did not do the walk up as it was extremely hot that day.
Yes, it is worth the time and effort. if it is what you are interested in seeing.
Have a great trip!
Several years ago, we drove up to Vesuvious - we enjoyed that also. It was an interesting drive up and there were spectacular views of the Bay from the parking lot. We did not do the walk up as it was extremely hot that day.
Yes, it is worth the time and effort. if it is what you are interested in seeing.
Have a great trip!
Aug 26th, 2007, 04:28 AM
#6
Echoing others, Yes Herculaneum is well worth seeing. It might lack the obvious theatres/amphitheatre of Pompeii, but is a lot less crowded and has some wonderfully preserved buildings (The bathhouse in particular).
The thing that struck me most about Herculaneum was standing near to what was sea level, looking up, and seeing just how much rock and ash covered the town at the time of the eruption. One can look at people hanging out their washing 60 feet or so above you.
The thing that struck me most about Herculaneum was standing near to what was sea level, looking up, and seeing just how much rock and ash covered the town at the time of the eruption. One can look at people hanging out their washing 60 feet or so above you.
Aug 26th, 2007, 07:13 AM
#7
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Regarding Mt. Vesuvius, I have a question about what you see/do once you get there. From my understanding, you take a bus from either Naples, Herculaneum or Pompeii to arrive at Mt. Vesuvius. Once you are there, you have the option of a 30 minute hike to the top of Mt. Vesusvius or you just take in the view from where the bus drops you off. Is my description of what you see/do on Mt. Vesuvius somewhat accurate?
Aug 26th, 2007, 07:23 AM
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The main reason, IMO, to visit Mt Vesuvius is to see and experience the actual crater and to have a guided tour.
Thus you must take that hike from the parking field. Otherwise all you've got to show for your effort is a ride up the mountain and down (plus the view towards the Bay of Naples).
Thus you must take that hike from the parking field. Otherwise all you've got to show for your effort is a ride up the mountain and down (plus the view towards the Bay of Naples).
