MAV — Virtual Archaeological Museum Herculaneum
The MAV (Museo Archeologico Virtuale) in Ercolano is one of Italy's most innovative museums and an unmissable stop for anyone wanting to truly understand life in ancient Rome before the catastrophe of 79 AD. Using cutting-edge virtual reality technology and high-definition 3D reconstructions, the museum lets you "visit" Herculaneum and Pompeii as they stood in their full glory before Vesuvius erupted. Fully reconstructed Roman environments — public baths, patrician homes, workshops, temples — come alive with sound, light, and animation. The experience culminates in a breathtaking simulation of the 79 AD eruption itself, an immersive journey that makes history viscerally real. The MAV is unique in Italy for its ability to resurrect the past through technology, making it compelling for adults and fascinating for children. Being just 10 minutes from O'Vesuvio B&B in Torre del Greco, it makes a perfect morning activity before heading to the actual excavations of Herculaneum or Pompeii in the afternoon — two sides of the same extraordinary story.
How to Get There
The MAV is in central Ercolano, 10 minutes from Torre del Greco by Circumvesuviana train (stop: Ercolano Scavi). 5-minute walk from the station. By car: 10 min via SS18, free parking on surrounding streets.
Highlights
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3D reconstructions of Herculaneum and Pompeii before 79 AD
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Immersive simulation of the Vesuvius eruption
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Fully reconstructed Roman rooms (baths, domus, workshops)
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Virtual reality experiences unique in Italy
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Family-friendly route suitable for children
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Perfect pairing with the real Herculaneum excavations nearby
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Only 10 minutes from Torre del Greco
💡 Practical Tip
Combine the MAV with the real Herculaneum excavations (5 minutes away on foot) for the complete experience: first the MAV to understand what the cities looked like, then the ruins to walk through authentic history. Book online to skip queues.
Stay at O'Vesuvio B&B
Just 20 minutes from the main attractions of the Bay of Naples. Book directly and save on commissions.