MAV Ercolano – Virtual Archaeological Museum

 

The MAV (Museo Archeologico Virtuale) in Ercolano is a museum experience designed to complement the visit to the Herculaneum excavations.
Instead of displaying ruins, the MAV focuses on digital and immersive reconstructions, helping visitors visualize how ancient Herculaneum looked before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

It is especially useful for those who want a clearer understanding of buildings, streets, interiors, and daily life that can be difficult to imagine when walking among archaeological remains.

What you can see at the MAV

The museum is centered around multimedia exhibits, including:

3D reconstructions of ancient Herculaneum;
immersive projections and interactive content;
visual storytelling about the eruption and the city’s destruction;
contextual material that helps interpret the excavations;

Rather than replacing the archaeological site, the MAV provides a visual “before and after” perspective.

Why visit the MAV

The MAV can be a good choice:

before visiting the excavations, to better understand what you will see;

after visiting, to connect ruins with reconstructed spaces;

for families and visitors who prefer a more visual learning experience;

on days when you want an indoor cultural activity;

It is a different way to explore the story of Herculaneum: less about stones and walls, more about reconstruction and interpretation.

Visiting information

Opening hours and ticket conditions may change during the year.
For updated information, visitors should check the official sources and onsite communications.

Frequently Asked Questions (MAV Ercolano)

What is the MAV in Ercolano?

The MAV is a virtual archaeological museum that uses multimedia and 3D reconstructions to show what ancient Herculaneum looked like before the eruption.

Is the MAV part of the Herculaneum excavations?

It is a separate museum experience, designed to complement the archaeological visit with reconstructions and digital interpretation.

Is the MAV suitable for children?

Yes. The visual and immersive format is often easier to understand than ruins alone, especially for younger visitors.

Should I visit the MAV before or after the excavations?

Both work. Visiting before helps you recognize structures during the walk; visiting after helps you interpret what you have seen.