Naples, the capital city of Campania in Italy, is filled with ancient history and culture. Among the most popular attractions in the city is the Naples Archaeological Museum. The museum houses one of the world’s most important collections of Greek and Roman artifacts. In this article, we will explore what to see in Naples Archaeological Museum.
Introduction
The Naples Archaeological Museum is located in the heart of Naples and is home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts from Greek and Roman times. The museum was established in the 18th century and has since become one of the most important archaeological museums in the world. The museum is divided into several sections, each with its own unique collection of artifacts.
The Farnese Collection
The Farnese Collection is one of the most important collections in the Naples Archaeological Museum. The collection includes a large number of ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, including the famous Farnese Hercules and the Farnese Bull. The collection also includes a large number of ancient mosaics, frescoes, and other decorative items.
The Farnese Hercules
The Farnese Hercules is one of the most famous sculptures in the world. The sculpture depicts the mythological hero Hercules, who was known for his incredible strength. The sculpture is over 3 meters tall and is made of marble. It is an impressive sight to see and is a must-see for anyone visiting the museum.
The Farnese Bull
The Farnese Bull is another famous sculpture in the Farnese Collection. The sculpture depicts the mythological story of Dirce, who was punished by being tied to a wild bull and dragged through the streets. The sculpture is incredibly detailed and is a masterpiece of ancient art.
The Pompeii Collection
The Pompeii Collection is another important collection in the Naples Archaeological Museum. The collection includes a large number of artifacts from the ancient city of Pompeii, which was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The artifacts include frescoes, mosaics, and other decorative items.
The Alexander Mosaic
The Alexander Mosaic is one of the most famous artifacts in the Pompeii Collection. The mosaic depicts the battle between Alexander the Great and Darius III of Persia. The mosaic is incredibly detailed and is a masterpiece of ancient art.
The Villa of the Papyri
The Villa of the Papyri is another important artifact in the Pompeii Collection. The villa was a luxurious residence in ancient Pompeii and was known for its large collection of papyrus scrolls. The villa was destroyed in 79 AD by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, but the scrolls were preserved by the ash and were later discovered by archaeologists.
Conclusion
The Naples Archaeological Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Naples. The museum’s vast collection of ancient artifacts is truly impressive and is a testament to the rich history and culture of the city. From the Farnese Collection to the Pompeii Collection, there is something for everyone at the museum. So if you’re planning a trip to Naples, be sure to add the Naples Archaeological Museum to your itinerary!
