Hercules

Sometimes the guide books get it right. Tourists should stay in the centre of town. We witnessed the outskirts of the city today on our trip to Herculaneum and were surprised by the poverty, unkempt and dirty surrounds and shifty looking characters. I was pleased to return to the hustle and bustle of the city this afternoon.

We were extra cautious on our train trip to Herculaneum, ancient town with hands on cameras and bags pulled in tighter. But we didn't encounter any problems of course. Herculaneum is a smaller version of the famous Pompeii. It was discovered by those drilling for water back in the 1700's. What they uncovered was truly remarkable. It is far more in tact than Pompeii. We saw some beautiful mosaics and colourful frescoes dating back to the 1st century. We were also surprised to see the skeletons of some of the people who came to their demise under the explosion of Mt Vesuvius which looms over the area.

Hi mum!

 

TodaysVideo.

We spent a while exploring this fascinating site before walking back in to town. We had burgers for lunch. Yes...burgers! Sometimes you have to answer the calling of your cravings. It hit the spot too. We got the train back to Naples and spent the afternoon relaxing in our hotel. Hotel il Convento was once a convent. The owners have tried to keep some of the original charm of the place. It's a nice little hotel and a good place to retreat from the noise and chaos of the streets! We are on the fourth floor and have a private terrace attached to our room. Check out the TV antennas Shannon spotted this afternoon on the building next door! Population density to the extreme.

Tomorrow, last of Naples and then lets Rome.