Villa Ferretti Archaeological Park in Bacoli: Italy's first free site

Villa Ferretti Archaeological Park in Bacoli: a new free cultural destination

Villa Ferretti, a historic residence on the Phlegraean coast, has been restored and converted into an Archaeological Park open to the public free of charge. The initiative reuses a property confiscated from organized crime and redeploys it for cultural promotion and urban regeneration through public investment and institutional partnerships.

The site preserves remains of a Roman villa with thermal areas and will feature secured walkways and educational spaces for school groups and visitors.

What to see at the Archaeological Park

• Free admission, with designed routes to protect and display the archaeological features.
• Ruins of a Roman villa and thermal complexes, accessible via guided pathways and informational displays.
• Educational programs and activities for families and schools: guided tours, workshops and learning initiatives.
• Partnerships with universities and cultural institutions to support research and valorisation (including local academic contributors).

Funding and management

The restoration and set-up have been supported by regional funds and contributions from local institutions and academic partners. The overall investment exceeds 2 million euros, with additional support for scientific and educational activities. Management is coordinated with the local heritage authority to ensure protection and public access.

Practical visitor information

• How to get there: the park is located in the municipality of Bacoli; check the municipality's official channels for opening hours and access arrangements.
• Accessibility: pathways are being secured and signposted; some zones may be restricted during restoration phases.
• Visitor tips: wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and follow on-site instructions to help preserve the archaeological remains.

Why visit

The Villa Ferretti Archaeological Park provides a unique chance to explore a coastal Roman villa within a broader project of social and cultural recovery. It demonstrates how confiscated properties can be transformed into centers of cultural attraction, education and local development.