MAV is a digital archaeology museum in Ercolano, near the Herculaneum excavations and the route from the Circumvesuviana station. Its projections, reconstructions and interactive displays help you picture the Roman town before Vesuvius buried it in AD 79. Look for the film narrated from the volcano’s perspective and scenes of daily life in Herculaneum and Pompeii. Download the museum app before you arrive: it provides audio for the exhibits, though some displays may not be working during your visit.
A digital view of ancient Herculaneum
MAV opened in 2005 to explore the history and daily life of ancient Herculaneum through multimedia. Its subject is the Roman town before the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79, as well as the disaster that buried it. Reconstructions and projections help you imagine buildings, streets and people beyond what remains at the archaeological site.
The museum is in Ercolano, on Via IV Novembre, between the Circumvesuviana station and the northern entrance to the excavations. It occupies a building erected in the late 1920s as a covered food market.
Films, reconstructions and audio
The displays use video, 3D imagery and interactive elements to interpret Herculaneum, Pompeii and other ancient sites. A film presents the eruption from Vesuvius’ perspective. Other installations reconstruct places and scenes from Roman life, including the Villa of the Papyri and its inhabitants, as well as public baths and their mosaics.
Download the museum app before entering. Audio on your phone can guide you through the exhibition, and some interactive content uses a smartphone. The digital displays are central to the visit, but not every exhibit is guaranteed to work. The cafe provides a place to pause, and the museum has restrooms.
Pairing MAV with the excavations
MAV works well as preparation for the nearby Herculaneum site: its reconstructed streets and interiors give context for the remains you will see outdoors. Families and students may find the visual approach useful, especially children who benefit from seeing how a Roman town was arranged.
The museum and the archaeological site have separate admission. You can also visit MAV after exploring the ruins, using the reconstructions to picture the buildings and daily life behind the remains.
FAQ
Where is MAV?
The museum is on Via IV Novembre in Ercolano, between the Circumvesuviana station and the northern entrance to the Herculaneum excavations.
Should I visit MAV before Herculaneum?
Yes. The digital reconstructions introduce the ancient town and can help put the archaeological remains in context.
Do I need to download an app?
Download the museum app before your visit. It provides audio for the exhibition, and some interactive content uses a smartphone.
Is MAV admission included with the Herculaneum excavations?
No. The museum and the archaeological site require separate admission.
