The Baia Underwater Park is a marine protected area unique in the world, the underwater extension of the ancient Imperial Baia.
Since the 2nd century BC, the city was the luxurious leisure resort for the elite of Ancient Rome.
Due to Phlegraean bradyseism and the resulting subsidence, much of the ancient city began to sink from the 4th century AD.
Today, this phenomenon gives us a submerged “little Atlantis”, stretching from Arco Felice to the port of Baia, embracing the ancient Portus Iulius.
Emerged Treasures: The Nymphaeum and Imperial Portraits
In 1969, at Punta Epitaffio, two marble statues identified as Ulysses and the Cyclops Polyphemus were found.
In the 1980s, a vast nymphaeum-triclinium was discovered, decorated with statues linked to the Julio-Claudian dynasty.
Today, the artifacts are on display at the Archaeological Museum of the Castle of Baia.
Tour Routes: Diving into Roman History
1 The “Villa a Protiro” Route
- Visible structures: paved road, thermal baths, and tabernae.
- The Villa: entrance with protiro (two columns with seats) and a still-preserved floor mosaic.
2 The “Pisoni Villa” Route
- Owner: Lucius Calpurnius Piso (inscription on fistula aquaria).
- Structures: garden with porticos, residential rooms, and private baths.
- Details: mosaics and marble slabs, maritime landings, and a fish pond.
3 The Nymphaeum and the Via Herculanea
- Nymphaeum: dynastic sculptural cycle of the Julio-Claudian dynasty.
- Via Herculanea: ancient paved road that crossed the Lacus Baianus.
An evocative view of the submerged archaeological area
Info and Costs
Diving: €5.00 per person
Snorkeling: €2.00
- The ticket includes a visit to a single area of the Park.
- Visits are only possible with authorized guides.
- Access by glass-bottom boat, kayak, snorkeling, or diving.
Opening Hours
From March to November 3/4: every day (times arranged with guides/boats).
Closed: November – February
Accessible to people with motor disabilities (according to agreed procedures).
How to Get There and Map
By car
- Naples Tangenziale – Pozzuoli/Arco Felice exit towards Lucrino/Bacoli.
By public transport
- From Napoli Montesanto: EAV Cumana Railway Line (Lucrino stop or Baia stop).
(Cumana Timetables) - From Napoli C.so Garibaldi (bus terminal), P.zza Vittoria, p.le Tecchio (Fuorigrotta):
BUS 101 EAV → get off at P.zza Lucrino or Bacoli Via Terme Romane.
(Bus Timetables)
Book your experience
Check out the available activities and select your favorite.
Check availability and book directly online.
