Villa of L. Crassius Tertius (Oplontis Villa B) in Torre Annunziata: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
Nestled in Torre Annunziata near Naples, Italy, the Villa of L. Crassius Tertius—also known as Oplontis Villa B—is a uniquely preserved example of a Roman “villa rustica.” Unlike its lavish neighbor, the Villa Poppaea, Villa B exemplifies the utilitarian core of Roman rural life, focused on large-scale agricultural production and storage. Discovered in 1974 beneath a modern school, the villa’s architecture, artifacts, and poignant archaeological finds offer invaluable insights into the socio-economic fabric and human drama of ancient Oplontis, especially during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE.
This comprehensive guide details the villa’s history, architectural layout, key discoveries, and practical information for visitors. It also includes essential tips and answers to frequently asked questions to help you plan an enriching journey through Torre Annunziata’s remarkable Roman heritage.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Discovery and Excavation History
- Architectural Features and Functional Zoning
- Socio-Economic Role and Daily Life
- The Eruption of 79 CE: Human Stories and Archaeological Evidence
- Visitor Information
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Summary and Recommendations
- Useful and Internal Links
- Citations
Discovery and Excavation History
The Villa of L. Crassius Tertius came to light in 1974 during construction work in Torre Annunziata, revealing a well-preserved Roman agricultural estate beneath the modern landscape. Identification is based on a bronze seal inscribed with the name Lucius Crassius Tertius, dating to the late 2nd century BCE (pompeiiinpictures.com; madainproject.com). Excavations, conducted intermittently since its discovery, have revealed significant structures and artifacts that enhance our understanding of Roman rural life and commerce. The villa lies about 300 meters east of the opulent Villa Poppaea, both forming central elements of the Oplontis archaeological area (pompeiisites.org).
Architectural Features and Functional Zoning
Construction and Layout
Villa B is characterized by its pragmatic, rustic layout, typical of a Roman “villa rustica.” The two-story complex is organized around a spacious courtyard with a double-order peristyle, constructed from local Nocera tufa columns. The architecture prioritizes agricultural production and storage, with many rooms left unplastered and floors of tamped earth (madainproject.com; pompeiitravel.com).
Functional Zoning
- Residential Quarters: Modest living spaces for the owner, workers, and guests, arranged around the courtyard.
- Production and Storage Areas: Large rooms and open courtyards for processing, storing, and exporting agricultural products, especially wine and oil. Over 400 amphorae, some inverted and internally resin-coated, demonstrate sophisticated storage and trade operations (Fulcrum Monograph).
- Workshops and Service Spaces: Dedicated areas for agricultural tools, equipment maintenance, and possibly leather tanning.
- Architectural Details: The villa employs opus incertum and opus reticulatum masonry, with later repairs in brickwork, and uses local volcanic materials (UNESCO).
Courtyards and Open Spaces
Courtyards provided essential light, ventilation, and space for agricultural tasks, as well as facilitating movement between the residential and production zones.
Socio-Economic Role and Daily Life
Villa B functioned as a major agricultural estate, or “villa rustica,” producing wine and oil for both local and regional markets. The discovery of amphorae, grape seeds, crop remnants, and processing tools highlights the villa’s role as a commercial hub. Living quarters for laborers and probable slaves, as well as modest guest rooms, reflect the social structure of the estate (pompeiitravel.com).
The villa’s operation as a “horreum” (warehouse) underlines its importance in the trade networks of the Bay of Naples (pompeiisites.org; madainproject.com).
The Eruption of 79 CE: Human Stories and Archaeological Evidence
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE buried Oplontis and Villa B beneath meters of volcanic ash. Unlike some outlying villas, Villa B was occupied at the time; archaeologists uncovered the remains of 54 individuals seeking refuge, along with personal belongings such as jewelry, silverware, and a significant coin hoard worth 10,000 sesterces (en.wikipedia.org; madainproject.com). Among the victims, the first plaster cast made in the area was of a young woman adorned with gold jewelry, offering a poignant testament to the tragedy (pompeiiinpictures.com).
Visitor Information
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Current Status:
As of June 2025, the Villa of L. Crassius Tertius remains closed to the public due to ongoing research and conservation. Visitors can explore the adjacent Villa Poppaea (Oplontis Villa A) and other sites in the Oplontis archaeological area (official site).
General Opening Hours (for Oplontis/Villa Poppaea):
- Open Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
- Closed on Mondays and public holidays
Tickets:
- Standard adult: €7–€12
- Discounts for EU residents aged 18–25; children under 18 free
- Pompeii three-day pass includes entry to Oplontis, Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Stabiae
Where to Buy:
- Online via official portals or onsite at ticket offices
Accessibility
- The villa is currently inaccessible, but Villa Poppaea and other local sites offer wheelchair-accessible routes and visitor facilities.
- Terrain is uneven due to ancient flooring—wear comfortable shoes.
Guided Tours and Special Events
- Guided tours are available at Villa Poppaea and nearby sites, offered in multiple languages.
- Educational programs and family-friendly tours focus on ancient daily life and the eruption.
- Virtual tours and special access events may be announced; check official resources for updates.
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
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Getting There:
- By train: Circumvesuviana Line to “Torre Annunziata Oplonti” (about 300m from site)
- By car: Autostrada A3, exit at Torre Annunziata Nord; limited parking, so arrive early
-
Nearby Attractions:
- Villa Poppaea (Oplontis Villa A)
- Pompeii Archaeological Park
- Herculaneum
-
Onsite Facilities:
- Restrooms at main entrance; cafés and shops nearby
- Bring water, sun protection, and a guidebook or app
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the Villa of L. Crassius Tertius open to visitors?
A: No, Villa B is currently closed for conservation. Visit Villa Poppaea and other Oplontis sites in the meantime.
Q: How can I buy tickets for Vesuvian sites?
A: Tickets for Villa Poppaea, Pompeii, and Herculaneum are available online or onsite at official ticket offices.
Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Typically 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM, last entry 6:00 PM; check official sites for seasonal changes.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours are offered at Villa Poppaea, Pompeii, and Herculaneum; private tours can be arranged.
Q: Is the site accessible to those with mobility challenges?
A: Villa B is currently closed; Villa Poppaea and other sites offer some accessible routes.
Summary and Recommendations
The Villa of L. Crassius Tertius stands as a vital archaeological record of Roman agricultural and economic life, providing a unique counterpoint to the luxurious villas of the Bay of Naples. Though not currently open to the public, the villa’s story is accessible through ongoing research, rich finds, and the immersive experiences available at neighboring sites such as Villa Poppaea, Pompeii, and Herculaneum.
To make the most of your visit to Torre Annunziata and the Vesuvian region:
- Check official websites for the latest updates on opening hours and access.
- Explore digital resources and virtual tours while Villa B remains closed.
- Take advantage of guided tours at open sites for a deeper understanding of Roman history.
- Use practical tips for comfort and accessibility, and combine visits to maximize your archaeological experience.
Visual Highlights
Alt text: Archaeological remains of Villa of L. Crassius Tertius (Oplontis Villa B) showing storerooms and courtyard in the Vesuvian region.
Alt text: Lavish frescoes from the Villa of Poppaea, near Villa of L. Crassius Tertius, Vesuvian archaeological site.
Useful Links
- Official Pompeii Archaeological Site
- Villa of Poppaea Visitor Information
- Oplontis Project Research
- Visit Naples Tourism
Internal Links
Citations and Further Reading
- The Villa of L. Crassius Tertius: History, Archaeology, and Visitor Guide (pompeiisites.org)
- Villa B Oplontis Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights (Oplontis Project)
- Visitor Access, Practical Information, and Tour Options (pompei.it)
- Visiting the Villa of L. Crassius Tertius (Oplontis Villa B): History, Tickets, and Travel Tips (madainproject.com)
For the latest updates, download the Audiala app and follow official channels for news on Villa B’s opening and ongoing research.
