Exploring the Ancient Villas of Stabiae
History, Highlights, and How to Visit
Rome
Naples
Amalfi
Sorrento
Positano
Stabiae, which is near the modern town of Castellammare di Stabia in Italy’s Campania region, may not be as renowned as Pompeii or Herculaneum, but it is an equally extraordinary archaeological site.
This once-thriving Roman town, just 5 km (3 miles) southwest of Pompeii, now unveils a one-of-a-kind view into the opulent villas and lifestyle of the ancient Roman elite.
The devastating tephra ash of the Mount Vesuvius eruption in AD 79 largely buried Stabiae.
Its recovery has given us profound new insights into Roman art, architecture, and daily life, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Not sure which Pompeii entry tickets are right for you? Let us guide you through the best options, from skip-the-line tickets and guided tours to convenient day tours to Pompeii, to make the most of your visit!
Key attractions in Stabiae
There are three main attractions in Stabiae—Villa San Marco, Villa Arianna, and Villa del Pastore. Let’s take a look at these attractions.
Villa San Marco
Named after a nearby chapel, Villa San Marco is one of the largest and most luxurious mansions in Stabiae.
It’s an impressive place featuring spacious courtyards, lush gardens, hot springs, and rooms decorated with intricate mosaics and colorful murals.
The main features include the beautifully decorated baths, the dining room (triclinium), and a lovely garden.
The villa’s paintings, with their intricate designs, bright colors, and mythological scenes, show the artistic skill of ancient Romans.
Recommended
Villa Arianna
Another famous house in Stabiae is Villa Arianna, known for its detailed murals and spacious layout.
It is named after a large mural that shows Ariadne, the Greek mythological princess from Crete.
The villa has a large open courtyard, several rooms decorated with frescoes, and a private bath area.
The frescoes in Villa Arianna are famous for their detailed designs and bright colors.
Plan your visit to Pompeii:
# Discover Pompeii’s opening hours and timings
# Find the best entrance for your Pompeii adventure
# Explore the must-see highlights of Pompeii
# Get essential tips for an unforgettable visit to Pompeii
Wondering how to reach Pompeii from different locations? Whether you’re coming from Rome, Naples, Amalfi, Sorrento, or Positano, we’ve gathered the best travel options to make your journey easy and hassle-free.
Villa del Pastore
Villa del Pastore is notable for its large farmlands and farm buildings, showing the rural character of Stabiae.
Even though it is less famous than the other two villas, Villa del Pastore highlights the region’s farming heritage.
Its layout, with living areas, storage rooms, and places for processing crops, gives fascinating insights into the daily lives of ancient Rome’s rural economy.
Note: Though there are many sites to see at Stabiae, you cannot temporarily visit those sites due to the excavation and conservation process. Nevertheless, Villa San Marco and Villa Arianna remain open throughout the years.
Learn about the facilities available onsite, familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations for visitors, and enjoy convenient dining and refreshment spots within Pompeii. Explore Pompeii with convenient day tours departing from Naples, Rome, Sorrento, Amalfi, and Positano. For a complete experience, you’ll also find nearby hotels for a comfortable stay after a day of exploration.
Frequently asked questions on Stabiae
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions on this ancient city.
What are the opening hours of Stabiae?
This archaeological site is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, except on Tuesdays.
How far is Stabiae from Pompeii?
Stabiae is 5 km away (3 miles) from Pompeii.
Is there an entrance fee to visit the villas in Stabiae?
No, there is no entrance fee to the Stabiae villas.
How to reach Stabiae?
You can catch a train to Castellammare di Stabia station from Naples (Napoli Porta Nolana) train station, followed by a short taxi ride. It is better to get your ticket in advance to avoid the hustle and bustle at the station. You can also go by car following the A3 Motorway.
Can I take photos at Stabiae?
Yes, you can click pictures, but you need permission from the authorities to take professional photos and videos.
What makes Stabiae unique compared to Pompeii?
While Pompeii was a bustling city, Stabiae was more of a luxurious getaway with large villas overlooking the sea and farmland.
How long should I plan to spend at Stabiae?
It takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and level of interest in exploring each villa thoroughly.
