Uncover the mysteries of the Bay of Naples, once one of the greatest centres of classical Graeco-Roman civilisation, with experts Dr Steve Kershaw or Stephen Nelson. The excavated remains of Pompeii, Stabiae and Villa Oplontis, entombed in ash in the Mount Vesuvius eruption of 79AD, provide a glimpse into this lost world. Herculaneum, covered in mud rather than ash, is remarkably well preserved, with multi-storey buildings, frescoes and mosaics on show. The region’s Greek highlights include Cumae, the Sibyl’s Cave and the imposing temples of Paestum.
Fly from London (regional connections available) to Naples with British Airways. Transfer to Cava dei Tirreni and, after an introductory lecture and welcome dinner, stay at Hotel Victoria Maiorino for 6 nights. (D)
Full-day tour to the little-known but exciting area of the Phlegrean Fields, also known as the ‘Burning Fields’ due to their volcanic nature. Morning visit to Cumae, the first Greek settlement in mainland Italy and home to the cave of the Sibyl, as described in Virgil’s Aeneid. Continue to Baia Archaeological Park with its Roman thermal spa. Finish with a visit to the volcanic crater of Solfatara. (B)
Full-day visit to Paestum, one of Italy’s most majestic sites, to see the magnificent Doric temples of Ceres, Hera and Neptune. Visit the museum and the recently discovered Greek tomb paintings. (B, L)
Visit the extensive ruins of Pompeii. See the archaeological park, where fascinating sights include the basilica, the forum and the amphitheatre. Continue to the excellently preserved Villa of the Mysteries, which features controversial frescoes thought to depict the secret cult of Dionysus. (B)
Morning visit to the ruins of Herculaneum, which are better preserved than those at Pompeii. Afternoon at leisure. (B)
Visit the excavated imperial villa at Oplontis, thought to be the home of Emperor Nero’s second wife, Poppaea. After a wine tasting and lunch, continue to Stabiae, where ancient Romans built magnificent villas painted with frescoes and where Pliny the Elder died during the volcanic disaster. (B, L)
Morning visit to the Naples National Archaeological Museum and its collection of treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Lunch at a typical Neapolitan pizzeria before returning to the airport for a flight to London. (B, L)
As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
A collection of expertaccompanied tours focusing on creativity in its many forms. No prior knowledge of the subject matter is required. All tours can be viewed at CoxandKings.co.uk
This tour is fully escorted throughout by a lecturer who has specialist knowledge of the destination and its culture, as well as an experienced local guide.
This tour is based in 4-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on our website to see details of the hotels included.
This tour involves some long walks and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Please note that the exclusive and individual nature of private visits means that they are subject to confirmation nearer the time of departure. Also, churches, private houses and other buildings often have fluid opening times. If any visits have to be re-arranged, please be assured that we will seek alternatives of equal interest.
He has taught Classics in a number of establishments, and now works for Oxford University Department for Continuing Education and the Victoria and Albert Museum. He wrote and teaches Oxford’s The Fall of Rome on-line course and has been featured as an expert contributor on the History Channel's Barbarians Rising series.
He is a practising sculptor, working in the UK and in Italy and exhibiting internationally. His work has been shown at the Royal Academy and the Estorick Collection. He has also curated exhibitions, including for the British Council in Tanzania and Eritrea. Stephen has extensive, specialist knowledge of Italy's art, archaeology and architecture and a particular interest in southern Italy and sites discovered off the beaten track.
This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please call 020 3411 2135 or email Info@CoxandKings.co.uk.
This tour can be booked / reserved online by clicking on one of the coloured links below.
IPO2019: 6 Nights