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The House of Hercules and Auge, also known as the House of the Popidii, is a residence in Regio VIII on Via dell’Abbondanza. Explored in several campaigns during the first half of the 19th century, its rooms are arranged around an atrium and a porticoed green space in the more private part of the house.
The atrium provided access to the tablinum and to rooms used for private life and reception. Beyond this area lay a porticoed garden, extending along the northern side and part of the western side. Investigations have shown that the green space was created after earlier structures were demolished, providing evidence of the house’s transformation over time.
The house takes its principal name from a painting depicting the myth of Hercules and Auge, found in a room on the western side of the peristyle. Already in poor condition when discovered, it was recorded by Giuseppe Abbate in 1840 and gave the building the conventional name by which it is now known.
An important Oscan inscription was also found near the building. It records the public magistrate Vibius Popidius and the construction of a portico. Now in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, the document is one reason for the house’s traditional association with the Popidii family. It should not, however, be regarded as certain proof that the family owned the residence.
In addition to the atrium and tablinum, the recorded rooms include triclinia, alae, service areas and a kitchen with a hearth. The arrangement and the porticoed garden illustrate the development of a residence in one of the city’s most central areas, a short distance from the Forum.