Located on the northern edge of the Phlegraean Fields in Campania, the site includes the acropolis with its ancient fortifications, temples, and the famed Cave of the Cumaean Sibyl, as well as the lower city, which developed significantly during the Samnite and Roman periods.

circa 700-600 BCE

Cave of the Sibyl
The Cave of the Sibyl at Cumae is an ancient rock-cut passage traditionally identified as the dwelling of the Cumaean Sibyl, a prophetic priestess of Apollo. This long, trapezoidal tunnel, carved into the tufa rock of the Cumaean acropolis, was rediscovered in 1932 by Amedeo Maiuri, aligning with ancient descriptions by Virgil (Aeneid VI) and Strabo. The structure extends for 131 meters, with a height of about 5 meters, and features a series of lateral openings that once allowed natural light to enter. At the far end, a barrel-vaulted chamber has been interpreted as the Sibyl’s sanctuary, where she would have delivered her cryptic prophecies. The cave’s layout and orientation suggest it may have also had military or religious functions beyond its legendary association with the oracle.

Ancient sources depict the Cumaean Sibyl as a powerful seer who wrote her prophecies on leaves, which were then scattered by the wind, making interpretation difficult. She was said to have guided Aeneas through the Underworld, linking the site to Roman mythology. While its exact purpose remains debated, the Cave of the Sibyl is among the most evocative and mysterious sites in Cumae, blending history, archaeology, and myth into a single, enduring landmark.

circa 550 BCE

Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo (Tempio di Apollo), situated on the acropolis, was one of the city's most significant religious structures, reflecting its Greek origins and later Roman adaptations. Originally built in the 6th century BCE, it was constructed using tufa, wood, and terracotta, with architectural elements characteristic of early Greek temples in Italy. The temple was closely associated with the Cumaean Sibyl, the legendary prophetess whose cave lies nearby. During the Roman period, particularly after Cumae's integration into the Republic, the temple underwent modifications, including the addition of a more monumental structure with painted friezes. The site continued to hold religious significance into late antiquity, eventually being repurposed as a Christian basilica. Today, the temple's ruins remain a prominent feature of the Archaeological Park of Cumae, offering insight into the city's evolving religious and cultural landscape.

circa 450 BCE

Temple of Jupiter
The Temple of Jupiter (Tempio di Giove), located at the highest point of the acropolis, was one of the most imposing sanctuaries of the ancient city. Likely constructed during the Samnite period (4th–3rd century BCE), it was later expanded and monumentalized under Roman rule. The temple's elevated position provided a commanding view over the Campanian coast, emphasizing its religious and strategic significance. Built primarily of tufa, with decorative terracotta elements, the structure followed the traditional Italic temple layout. In the Roman era, it may have been rededicated to Jupiter Optimus Maximus, reflecting the assimilation of Cumae into Roman religious traditions. Like many ancient temples, it was later converted into a Christian church, contributing to its preservation. Excavations in the early 20th century uncovered significant architectural fragments and inscriptions, further illuminating its historical role within the city. Today, the temple's remains stand as a testament to Cumae's religious and political transformation over the centuries.

circa 350 BCE

Capitolium
The Temple of the Capitoline Triad was a significant religious structure dedicated to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, the three principal deities of Roman state religion. Likely constructed during the Roman period, it reflected the influence of Roman religious traditions on the city, especially after its integration into the Republic in 338 BCE. Positioned on the acropolis, the temple may have been built over an earlier Samnite or Greek sanctuary, aligning with the Roman practice of repurposing sacred sites. Architecturally, it would have followed the typical Capitoline temple layout, featuring a high podium, a deep pronaos with columns, and three cellae, each dedicated to one of the deities. The temple played a crucial role in the civic and religious life of Roman Cumae, serving as a focal point for public ceremonies and official rituals. Over time, as Christianity spread, the temple likely fell into disuse or was repurposed, similar to other pagan sanctuaries. Today, only scattered remains survive, but its historical significance underscores Cumae’s transformation into a fully Romanized city.

circa 150 BCE

Temple of Diana
The Temple of Diana (Tempio di Diana), though less well-documented than the temples of Apollo and Jupiter, was one of the city's key religious structures, dedicated to the goddess of the hunt, the moon, and nature. Based on archaeological evidence, it is believed to have been constructed during the Roman period, possibly in the early imperial era, when the city saw extensive urban and religious development. Given Diana's association with wild landscapes and sacred groves, the temple may have been situated near the outskirts of the city or within a natural setting. Though little remains of the structure today, historical sources and scattered architectural fragments suggest it followed a classical Roman temple layout, with a raised podium, a columned portico, and rich decorative elements. Like many pagan temples, it was likely abandoned or repurposed in late antiquity following the spread of Christianity. Further excavations and research may provide more clarity on its role within the religious landscape of Cumae.

circa 50 BCE

Forum Baths
The Forum Baths (Terme del Foro) were a central public bathing complex built during the Roman period, reflecting the city's integration into Roman urban and social life. Constructed near the forum, these baths served as a key hub for both hygiene and social interaction, following the standard layout of Roman thermal complexes. The structure likely included the frigidarium (cold bath), tepidarium (warm bath), and caldarium (hot bath), along with dressing rooms and possibly a palestra for exercise. The baths were supplied with water from the Aqua Augusta, the major aqueduct system that provided fresh water to cities across Campania. Excavations have uncovered remnants of the bathhouse’s brickwork, hypocaust heating system, and decorative elements, suggesting it was adorned with fine mosaics and stucco work. Like many Roman bath complexes, it would have remained in use well into late antiquity, before eventually falling into disrepair as the city declined. Today, the ruins of the Forum Baths offer insight into the daily life and public infrastructure of Roman Cumae.

circa 95 CE

Arco Felice
The Arco Felice is a 20-meter-high monumental gateway constructed during the reign of Domitian in 95 CE as part of his infrastructure projects in Campania. It was built at a strategic cut through Monte Grillo, allowing for a more direct route to Cumae via the newly constructed Via Domitiana, which connected the city to Pozzuoli, Naples, and ultimately Rome by linking with the Via Appia. This bypass eliminated the need for the longer, more circuitous route previously required to reach Cumae.

Constructed primarily of brick-faced concrete (opus latericium) and once covered in marble, the arch was designed to be both functional and imposing. It featured two rows of lighter concrete arches above the main gateway, reducing weight while maintaining structural stability. The massive piers supporting the arch included three niches on each side, which originally housed statues, further enhancing its grandeur. Additionally, the structure served a dual purpose—while the Via Domitiana passed through its main opening, another road ran along the ridge of the hill, likely continuing an ancient route.

The Arco Felice likely replaced an earlier, smaller gate from Greek times, positioned at a higher elevation. Today, remnants of its original paving are still visible and in use, highlighting the enduring legacy of Roman engineering and urban planning. Despite centuries of wear, it remains one of the most striking and well-preserved monuments in the area.