The Phlegraean Fields: Greek and Roman Archaeology
in an full day tour

The Phlegraean Fields are a large volcanic area located north of Naples. The landscape is made up of low and wide volcanoes still active. Because of the sulfataras, volcanic fumaroles that mainly emit volcanic vapors and gases with a strong sulfur component, the ancient Greeks and Romans thought that here was the entrance to the Underworld.

The History of Cumae and Baiae

Located in the fascinating area of the Phlegraean Fields near Naples, Cumae Archaeological Park and Archaeological Park of Baiae preserve the extraordinary remains of one of the most important cultural and political regions of the ancient Mediterranean world.

Cumae was founded by Greek settlers from Euboea around the 8th century BC and became the first Greek colony established on the Italian mainland. The city played a fundamental role in spreading Greek culture, religion, alphabet, and artistic traditions throughout southern Italy and later influenced early Roman civilization.

Thanks to its strategic position overlooking the Gulf of Naples, Cumae quickly developed into a powerful commercial and military center. The city controlled important maritime routes and maintained close relationships with other Greek colonies of Magna Graecia.

Cumae is also deeply connected with mythology and religion. According to ancient tradition, it was home to the famous Cumaean Sibyl, the prophetic priestess of Apollo who guided heroes and kings through divine revelations. Ancient Roman authors, including Virgil in the Aeneid, described the Sibyl and her mysterious cave as one of the most sacred places of the ancient world.

The archaeological area preserves impressive remains from both the Greek and Roman periods, including the Temple of Apollo, the Temple of Jupiter, defensive walls, underground tunnels, and the legendary Sibyl’s Cave.

During Roman rule, Cumae remained an important religious and strategic center. Villas, roads, and public buildings transformed the city, although its Greek identity continued to survive for centuries.

A short distance from Cumae lies Baiae, one of the most luxurious and exclusive resorts of the Roman Empire. Famous for its thermal springs, mild climate, and breathtaking views over the Bay of Naples, Baiae became the preferred holiday destination of Roman aristocrats, senators, and emperors.

Many of the most powerful figures of Roman history owned villas in Baiae, including Julius Caesar, Nero, Hadrian, and other members of the imperial elite. The city became synonymous with luxury, pleasure, political intrigue, and refined Roman lifestyle.

Baiae was renowned for its enormous seaside villas, thermal complexes, gardens, banquets, and sophisticated engineering systems that exploited the natural volcanic hot springs of the Phlegraean Fields.

Today visitors can explore the remarkable remains preserved inside the Archaeological Park of Baiae, including baths, domes, terraces, mosaics, and monumental structures that demonstrate the extraordinary architectural innovations of Roman engineering.

The entire area of the Phlegraean Fields is characterized by volcanic activity, thermal phenomena, and mythological traditions that fascinated Greeks and Romans alike. Ancient authors believed this mysterious land was connected to the underworld and the entrance to the kingdom of Hades.

Today Cumae and Baiae offer visitors an extraordinary journey through Greek colonization, Roman luxury, mythology, religion, and volcanic landscapes, making the Phlegraean Fields one of the most fascinating archaeological destinations in Italy.