Oplontis and Stabia

The villas of otium

This half-day tour will offer students an educational and engaging experience, immersing them in ancient history and allowing them to gain a better understanding of the culture and life of Roman aristocracy in the luxurious villas of Oplontis and Stabiae.

Accompanied by a professional guide, students will discover the luxurious villas of the Roman aristocracy located in the ancient cities of Oplontis and Stabiae, now known as Torre Annunziata and Castellammare di Stabia. These villas, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, provided the ancient Romans with a healthy climate and an escape from the chaos of city life. The tour begins in ancient Oplontis with a visit to the Villa of Poppaea, an imposing and luxurious residence attributed to the second wife of Nero, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Students will have the opportunity to explore the frescoes and structures that reveal the opulence in which the Roman aristocracy lived. Next, we will move to ancient Stabiae, on the Varano hill, where we will visit some of the villas uncovered thanks to the excavation campaign that began during the reign of Charles of Bourbon. Students will explore Villa San Marco and Villa Arianna, both located in a panoramic position and rich in architectural and artistic details that tell the story of the daily life and habits of the ancient Romans. During the tour, the professional guide will provide insights into the history, art, and architecture of the villas, offering a detailed view of how Roman aristocrats lived. Students will discover how these residences were not just homes but also symbols of power and social prestige.

Duration: approximately 2.5 hours

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