The fornici are the arched boathouses on the ancient shore of Herculaneum. In 1980, about 300 skeletons were found in nine of the twelve, according to the official page on the fugitives. They were women and men, young and old, free people and slaves, and with them were jewellery, coins, keys, amulets and a surgical kit.
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Herculaneum: Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
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Buy tickets →The ancient beach
The ancient beach has been open to walk on since June 2024, the first walkable beach in an archaeological park, according to news reports. The Galleria Martusciello, a walkway of more than 100 metres connecting the modern town to the ancient beach with new lighting, was reported reopened in July 2026. We could not confirm the exact day, so check at the entrance whether the beach route is open.
The charred boat
The Boat Pavilion in the park holds the charred remains of a boat over 9 metres long, found on the beach in the 1980s. The nearby Antiquarium displays finds from the 20th-century excavations, with a room devoted to the finds of the fugitives. We could not confirm whether these are included in the standard ticket.
The Suburban Baths
The park describes the Suburban Baths as one of the best-preserved bath buildings of the Roman world. They can be seen only on guided visits to the restoration site on selected Saturdays. Check the official site.
Plan your visit
Read the full list of sights in what to see at Herculaneum, the story behind it in the history of Herculaneum, and practical advice in our visit tips.
