When visiting Italy’s stunning Campania region, exploring the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum is a must for history enthusiasts. Both sites were buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, yet they offer distinct experiences. While Pompeii is vast and awe-inspiring, Herculaneum provides a more intimate and better-preserved glimpse into ancient Roman life. If you’re unsure which site to visit (or whether both are worth your time), this guide breaks down the key differences to help you decide.

1. Size and Scale

Pompeii is significantly larger than Herculaneum. Covering approximately 170 acres, Pompeii was a bustling city with a complex network of streets, grand public buildings, and vast residential areas. Visitors can spend hours—if not a full day—exploring its many ruins. In contrast, Herculaneum is much smaller, covering about 50 acres. This compact size makes it easier to explore in a few hours while still gaining valuable insights into ancient life.

2. Preservation and Condition of the Ruins

One of the most striking differences is the level of preservation. Pompeii was buried under a thick layer of ash and pumice, which led to significant structural damage. However, Herculaneum was covered by a dense layer of volcanic mud, which hardened and effectively sealed buildings, preserving them in remarkable detail. As a result, visitors to Herculaneum can see intact multi-story buildings, wooden furniture, frescoes, and even carbonized scrolls.

3. The Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Pompeii’s size and fame attract large crowds, making it a more bustling and sometimes overwhelming experience. It offers a vast open-air museum filled with iconic sites like the Forum, the Amphitheater, and the Lupanar (brothel). Herculaneum, on the other hand, feels quieter and more immersive due to fewer tourists and its more compact layout. This allows for a more personal connection with the ancient city.

4. Highlights of Each Site

– Pompeii: The Forum, the House of the Faun, the Villa of the Mysteries, the Amphitheater, and preserved casts of victims.

– Herculaneum: The House of the Wooden Partition, the Villa of the Papyri, colorful mosaics and frescoes, and the remarkably well-preserved boat houses where many victims sought refuge.

5. Which One Should You Visit?

– Choose Pompeii if: You want a full-day exploration, are interested in a large-scale ancient city, and don’t mind crowds.

– Choose Herculaneum if: You prefer a more intimate and well-preserved site, have limited time, or want to avoid large crowds.

– Visit both if: You have enough time and want a comprehensive understanding of Roman life before the eruption.

 Final Thoughts

Whether you choose Pompeii, Herculaneum, or both, each site offers a unique journey into the past. Pompeii impresses with its scale and famous landmarks, while Herculaneum provides an incredibly well-preserved and detailed look at daily Roman life. No matter your choice, exploring these ancient ruins will undoubtedly be a highlight of your Italian adventure!