Villa Hercules

Villa Hercules is a Roman villa urbana in Budapest featuring residential spaces with intricate floor mosaics depicting mythological figures and geometric patterns. These decorated chambers extend across multiple rooms, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic preferences of its former inhabitants.

The site was discovered in 1958 during school construction and dates from the 2nd century AD when Aquincum served as the capital of Roman Pannonia. This era marked a time of prosperity and cultural development in the region.

The central mosaic depicts a wine harvest scene honoring Bacchus, with Hercules and Amor offering grapes to a tiger. This scene reflects how wealthy residents expressed their connection to classical mythology and religious beliefs through their home decoration.

The site is protected by glass walls over two sections and can be viewed from the ground floor of the adjacent school building. Check accessibility before visiting since it is located within a school property and may have limited viewing hours.

A spectacular mosaic of Hercules with Deianira was created using 60,000 individual tiles and originated in Alexandria. This masterpiece is now housed in the Aquincum Museum, demonstrating the wealth and far-reaching connections of the villa's residents.