Villa Arianna

Villa Arianna is the oldest “villa d’otium” of Stabiae, dating back to the 2nd century BC. Located on the western end of the Varano hill, it offers a panoramic view of the Gulf of Naples. Its name derives from a fresco depicting Arianna abandoned by Theseus, found in the Villa’s triclinium.

Excavations started between the 1757 and the 1762 under the direction of the swiss engeneer Karl Weber, during borbonic period. The Villa, spread throughout about 11.000 meters square, presents an articolated structure with the atrium, the peristyle, thermal zone, gardens and service environments. Within its most important characteristics there are the frescoes that decorate the walls of the rooms, depicting mithological scenes and views, to prove the high artistic level reached during roman times.

Today, Villa Arianna is a visitable archaeological site, which allows visitors to immerse themselves in the daily life and art of ancient Stabiae.