Luxury Travel Blog

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January 6, 2017

Oplontis: An Undiscovered Archaeological Gem in Southern Italy

Oplontis toursClose to Naples and the Amalfi Coast, Oplontis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the most interesting yet least known ruins in southern Italy.

Oplontis toursOplontis was once a cluster of villas on the outskirts of Pompeii and was also buried under ash after the infamous 79 A.D. eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Oplontis toursThough several public and private buildings comprised Oplontis in ancient times, only one villa has been excavated and is open to the public today.

Oplontis toursSometimes known as Villa di Poppea (after emperor Nero’s second wife, who is said to have spent much time there), the ruins at Oplontis have greatly increased our understanding of the lavish lifestyles of the aristocracy during the early years of the Roman Empire.

Oplontis toursWell-preserved frescoes adorn many of the rooms with vividly colored images of flora and fauna, mythological figures and abstract patterns.

Oplontis toursThe villa also has a pool and courtyard gardens surrounded by peristyles (colonnaded porches).

Oplontis toursDespite its cultural riches, Oplontis—part of the Pompeii, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata UNESCO listing—gets a fraction of the visitors as its more famous neighbors.

Oplontis toursOur travelers enjoy the sense of discovery and intimacy they feel when exploring the site with their private guide.

Oplontis toursArtisans of Leisure’s insider guides are experts in ancient Italian history and understand the significance of Oplontis.

Oplontis toursSeveral of our private Italy tours feature southern Italy, any of which can be customized to include touring of Oplontis.

Oplontis toursContact an Artisans of Leisure Italy specialist to start planning.

Oplontis tours

Destinations:  Europe, Italy

Tags:  archaeological site, archaeology, decorative arts, design, history, Italy, Oplontis, Pompeii, ruins, UNESCO