The Ancients cover image

The Ancients

Herculaneum

Apr 3, 2025
Join Professor Andrew Wallace-Hadrill, an expert in Roman archaeology from the University of Cambridge, as he takes you on a journey through the fascinating ruins of Herculaneum. Discover how this lesser-known town, buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, reveals intimate details of daily Roman life through its lavish villas and bustling shops. Learn about the groundbreaking AI technology being used to unlock ancient texts and explore the unique social dynamics that defined this vibrant community, offering insights that contrast starkly with its more famous neighbor, Pompeii.
01:03:59

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Quick takeaways

  • Herculaneum's unique burial conditions resulted in the exceptional preservation of organic materials, providing invaluable insights into daily Roman life.
  • The challenges of excavating Herculaneum, compounded by political and financial issues, led to a delayed appreciation of its historical significance compared to Pompeii.

Deep dives

The Impact of Mount Vesuvius on Herculaneum

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD significantly impacted the town of Herculaneum, leading to its destruction and preservation under a pyroclastic flow. Unlike Pompeii, which was buried under pumice, Herculaneum's fate involved being covered by volcanic ash and gas, allowing for better preservation of organic materials, including wood and structures. The different burial conditions between the two sites offer contrasting archaeological insights, with Herculaneum's unique preservation providing a richer understanding of the daily lives of its inhabitants. This natural disaster not only ended the lives of its residents but also left a treasure trove of artifacts for future generations to study.

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