MAV Virtual Archaeological Museum
Immerse yourself in ancient Herculaneum with virtual reality, 3D films, and interactive exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
MAV Virtual Archaeological Museum
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in ancient Herculaneum with virtual reality, 3D films, and interactive exhibits.
"A superb insight as to how life and the town was back in AD79 before Vesuvius erupted."
📱 Bring Your Smartphone
Essential for interactive exhibits! Download the MAV app and connect to their Wi-Fi for the full experience.
💡 Visit Before Herculaneum
Gain context for the ruins. MAV provides a superb insight into ancient life before you explore the site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
3D Eruption Film
Experience the Vesuvius eruption from the volcano's perspective in a captivating 3D film.
Then and Now Recreations
See Herculaneum brought to life with virtual reality and screen displays showing ancient life alongside modern views.
Interactive Roman Town
Explore a virtual drone sequence of the Roman town, controlled with a game controller for an engaging experience.
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Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Virtual Journey
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📱 Bring Your Smartphone
Essential for interactive exhibits! Download the MAV app and connect to their Wi-Fi for the full experience.
💡 Visit Before Herculaneum
Gain context for the ruins. MAV provides a superb insight into ancient life before you explore the site.
Is Herculaneum worth it?
☕ Cafe Break
The on-site cafe is great and very cheap, perfect for a rest.
🚶 Easy Walk from Station
MAV is conveniently located between the Ercolano train station and the archaeological site.
Tips
from all over the internet
📱 Bring Your Smartphone
Essential for interactive exhibits! Download the MAV app and connect to their Wi-Fi for the full experience.
💡 Visit Before Herculaneum
Gain context for the ruins. MAV provides a superb insight into ancient life before you explore the site.
☕ Cafe Break
The on-site cafe is great and very cheap, perfect for a rest.
🚶 Easy Walk from Station
MAV is conveniently located between the Ercolano train station and the archaeological site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
MAV offers an immersive, virtual experience of ancient Herculaneum, praised for its 3D eruption film and 'then and now' recreations that enhance understanding of the ruins. While some find the technology a bit dated, its convenience and educational value, especially as a prelude to visiting the archaeological site, are frequently highlighted. The cafe is also noted as a pleasant and affordable spot.
"This museum is based on videos on the walls and audios in italian or english that you can hear on your Phone. In our opinion it should be more interactive.
What we found interesting was to see recreations of Pompei and Herculaneum."
Catarina Gomes
"Having just visited both Pompeii and Herculaneum we found this museum a superb insight as to how life and the town was back in AD79 before Vesuvius erupted. The virtual reality videos (one is a 3D re-enaction) and screen displays combining both then and now really helped bring everything to life. Really enjoyed this museum and well worth visiting after visiting Herculaneum. Friendly and helpful staff. Definitely would recommend."
Tim Wells
"Interesting place and worked well to do before visiting Herculaneum. We got the train in and it was a straight walk down between the station and Herculaneum. The staff were friendly and helpful. The 3d film was good and a bit different, narrated from the perspective of Vesuvius. Some of the exhibits weren't working, but without a sign you had to guess by waving in front of them to see if anything happened! Well worth a visit."
sally peacock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The MAV is easily accessible. If you're arriving by train, it's a straightforward walk from the Ercolano station towards the Herculaneum archaeological site. Many visitors find it convenient to visit MAV first before heading to the ruins.
While specific parking details for MAV aren't widely publicized, there are typically parking options available in Ercolano, especially near the train station and the archaeological site. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
Yes, MAV is located conveniently between the Ercolano train station and the Herculaneum archaeological site, making it easy to walk to from either location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's generally recommended to check the official MAV website for the most up-to-date information on ticket purchasing. While some visitors have mentioned buying tickets on arrival, booking in advance can save time, especially during peak season.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official MAV website for the most accurate and current operating hours before your visit.
Yes, there is an admission fee for the MAV. Some reviews suggest it's worth the cost for the insights it provides, while others feel it's a bit pricey for the experience.
Information on discounts, such as for students, seniors, or families, is usually available on the MAV's official website. It's worth checking there for any applicable offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
MAV offers an immersive experience with videos on walls, audio guides (in Italian and English), and interactive exhibits using your smartphone. Highlights include a 3D film about Vesuvius and virtual recreations of Herculaneum.
Yes, a smartphone is essential for the MAV experience. You'll need to download their app and connect to their Wi-Fi to interact with many of the exhibits.
The museum has a gift shop aimed at children with items like rubbers, pens, and imitation coins. The interactive nature of some exhibits might also appeal to younger visitors, though some content might be more suited for older children or adults.
Most visitors spend around 1-2 hours at MAV, depending on how much time they dedicate to each exhibit and the interactive elements. It's often recommended to allow ample time to fully appreciate the virtual experience.
Some visitors have reported that certain exhibits were not working during their visit. It's advisable to be patient and explore what is available, as some interactive elements might require a bit of trial and error.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, MAV has a cafe that is described as great and very cheap, offering a good spot for a break during your visit.
Typically, museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition areas. It's best to consume these in designated areas like the cafe or outside the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. While some areas might allow personal photography without flash, it's always best to check for signage or ask staff for clarification to avoid any issues.
The 'Then and Now' recreations and the 3D film sequences offer visually striking moments. The interactive drone footage of the Roman town also provides unique perspectives for capturing images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Visiting MAV before the Herculaneum ruins can help children visualize what they are about to see, making the archaeological site more relatable and exciting. It's a good way to spark their curiosity about ancient Roman life in a dynamic, screen-based format. However, parents should gauge their children's sensitivity to the eruption film, as it can be quite impactful.
🏛️ History Buffs
While MAV doesn't house physical artifacts, its strength lies in its immersive storytelling and its ability to contextualize the archaeological site. It's a modern approach to experiencing history, allowing visitors to visualize the past in a way that static displays might not achieve. Consider it a digital diorama that enhances the understanding of the historical context before or after visiting the actual ruins.
📱 Tech-Savvy Travelers
While some reviewers note that the AR technology might feel a bit dated, it still offers a glimpse into how museums are evolving. The seamless integration of digital content with historical information aims to create a more dynamic and memorable visit. For travelers who enjoy interactive displays and digital storytelling, MAV offers a unique experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of Virtual Reality in Archaeology
One of the most talked-about features is the 3D film, which narrates the story of the eruption from the volcano's point of view. This innovative storytelling method provides a dramatic and memorable account of the event. Furthermore, visitors can engage with a virtual drone sequence of the Roman town, which is controlled via a game controller, adding an element of interactivity and fun. The museum also links names to images found in the ruins, allowing for a more personal connection to the ancient inhabitants.
While the technology is praised for its potential, some reviews suggest that certain exhibits might feel dated or not as interactive as expected in today's AR/VR landscape. However, for many, MAV serves as an excellent prelude to visiting the Herculaneum archaeological site, providing crucial context and enhancing the overall understanding and appreciation of the ruins. The museum's proximity to both the train station and the site makes it a convenient and informative stop.
MAV as a Precursor to Herculaneum
The virtual reconstructions and historical explanations provided at MAV can transform a walk through the archaeological site from simply observing ancient stones to imagining the bustling town that once stood there. Visitors can learn about the daily lives, architecture, and social structures of the Roman inhabitants, making their exploration of the physical site more meaningful. The museum's location, conveniently situated between the Ercolano train station and the archaeological park, further enhances its role as an ideal starting point for a day of historical discovery.
While some reviews suggest that the museum's technology might not be cutting-edge by current standards, its primary strength lies in its ability to educate and engage visitors about the history of Herculaneum. For those seeking a deeper understanding of this ancient Roman town, a visit to MAV is highly recommended as a way to enrich their overall experience of the area.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit