Herculaneum and the House of the Bicentenary - History and Heritage

This volume provides a historical overview of Herculaneum, a Roman town destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, and its preservation for nearly two thousand years. It explores the town's history, architecture, and cultural significance, with a focus on the House of the Bicentenary, one of the most decorated private residences. Recent discoveries and conservation efforts are also discussed.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 160 pages
\n Publication date: 21 January 2020
\n Publisher: Getty Trust Publications
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This remarkable volume provides a captivating account, accessible to a broad audience, of the ancient Roman town of Herculaneum, which was tragically destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE and remarkably preserved for nearly two thousand years. The initial chapters offer an engaging historical overview of the town, spanning from its antiquity to the modern era. They delve into the intriguing story of its rediscovery in the eighteenth century, the extensive excavations conducted in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, and its profound cultural significance in contemporary times.

Subsequent chapters take readers on an interpretive tour of the ancient town, showcasing its architectural wonders and intricate details. The focus then shifts to one of Herculaneum's most magnificent and exquisitely decorated private residences, known as the House of the Bicentenary. Situated along the town's main street, this remarkable residence boasts a plethora of features that provide a glimpse into daily life in the ancient world. Original rooms, magnificent wall paintings and mosaics, and remarkable documents, such as papyrus manuscripts, offer a profound insight into the lives of the inhabitants of Herculaneum.

To bring the story up to date, the final chapters explore recent discoveries about the site and its renowned papyrus manuscripts. Additionally, they highlight ongoing conservation initiatives aimed at preserving and protecting this invaluable cultural heritage.

This captivating volume serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Herculaneum and its remarkable preservation. It offers a valuable resource for anyone interested in ancient history, archaeology, and the art of ancient civilization.

\n Weight: 750g\n
Dimension: 255 x 204 x 13 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781606066287\n \n