Attraction Guide: Pompeii, Pompeii, Italy

Pompeii Guide

Pompeii: Step Back in Time to a Lost Roman City Guide

Welcome to Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most fascinating archaeological experiences in the world. This ancient Roman city was tragically buried under volcanic ash and pumice in 79 AD during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, effectively freezing it in time. Today, visitors can walk the remarkably preserved streets, explore homes, shops, and public buildings, and gain a unique insight into daily life in the Roman Empire. Prepare to be transported back nearly two millennia as you wander through this haunting and captivating city. Pompeii's history is one of both prosperity and sudden destruction. Founded in the 6th century BC, it flourished as a bustling port city under Greek and then Roman rule. By the 1st century AD, it was a thriving commercial center with a population of around 11,000. The eruption of Vesuvius brought this vibrant life to an abrupt end, burying the city under meters of ash and preserving it for centuries. Rediscovered in the 18th century, excavations have revealed an unparalleled glimpse into Roman society, art, and architecture. A visit to Pompeii offers a multitude of activities. Explore the well-preserved ruins of houses, including the House of the Vettii with its stunning frescoes, and the House of the Faun, known for its Alexander Mosaic. Wander through the ancient Forum, the heart of Pompeii's political and social life. See the amphitheater, one of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheaters. Don't miss the casts of the victims of the eruption, a poignant reminder of the tragedy that befell the city. While in the region, be sure to sample local Campanian cuisine, including fresh seafood, pizza, and pasta dishes. The area is also known for its production of excellent wines, such as Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio.