Ercolano, also known as Herculaneum in English, is an ancient Roman town located in the Campania region of Italy, near the city of Naples. The town was destroyed during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, along with the nearby city of Pompeii. The ruins of Ercolano were rediscovered in the 18th century, and are now a popular archaeological site and tourist attraction.

The town was smaller than Pompeii, with a population of around 4,000 people. Unlike Pompeii, which was buried under layers of volcanic ash and pumice, Ercolano was covered by a layer of hot mud and ash, which solidified into a hard, protective shell that preserved much of the town's buildings, objects, and even human remains.

The excavations of Ercolano have revealed a well-preserved Roman town, with many public buildings, private houses, shops, and workshops. Some of the most notable buildings in Ercolano include the House of the Deer, the House of the Mosaic Atrium, the House of the Skeleton, the Thermal Baths, and the Villa of the Papyri. The town also had a large port, which was destroyed during the eruption and later partially buried by lava flows.

Ercolano is smaller and less crowded than Pompeii, but is considered by many to be even better preserved and more interesting. Visitors can see frescoes, mosaics, furniture, and everyday objects that offer a glimpse into the daily life of the ancient Romans. The site is also surrounded by beautiful views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.