Pompeii was a Roman city in Italy near Naples. It was destroyed in 79 AD during the eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius. About 4-6 meters of volcanic ash and pumice buried the city, which was forgotten for a long time. It was rediscovered in 1748 during excavations. Although the city has continued to be excavated since it is estimated that about two-thirds of it has been "discovered".
The volcanic eruption preserved the buildings, streets, works of art and everyday objects in amazing detail as a natural time capsule. As often in life, it was a tragic event that provided invaluable insight into the future.
Where is Pompeii?
Pompeii is located in the Campania region in the western part of Italy. It is located 25 kilometres southeast of Naples, on the southern slope of Mount Vesuvius. You are by the Tyrrhenian Sea.
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- Mount Vesuvius distance: 25 km
- Naples distance: 25 km
- Sorrento distance: 50 km
- Amalfi coast distance: 65 km
- Rome distance: 240 km
Map
Things to see
Archaeologists divided Pompeii into nine parts, giving them Roman numerals. There are many fascinating sights to see in the city. Here are some of the main attractions to explore:
#1 Forum
It was the ancient city's political, religious and economic centre. As a public square, it served as the heart of civic life. A large rectangular open space surrounded by important public buildings and temples. The Temple of Jupiter dominated the square. Temples of Apollo, Vespasian and Augustus were also nearby. The Forum was also a commercial centre with shops, markets and workshops.
#2 Amphitheatre
One of the most impressive and iconic structures. It was built during the reign of Emperor Augustus, so it is over 2000 years old. Its design follows the layout of a typical Roman amphitheatre, with an elliptical shape and multi-level seats capable of accommodating thousands of spectators. The amphitheatre was a place of entertainment where mainly gladiator fights were held.
#3 Vettii House
One of the best-preserved and richest houses in Pompeii. It provides a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of a wealthy Roman family. It was named after its owners, the Vettii brothers, Aulus Vettius Restitutus and Aulus Vettius Conviva. It is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Roman aristocratic residences. The house's interior is decorated with intricate frescoes depicting various subjects, including mythological scenes, landscapes, animals and human figures.
#4 Faun house
The former aristocratic villa can be recognized for its extensive size and lavish decorations. It takes its name from a large bronze statue of a dancing faun (a mythical creature with a human body and goat legs) found in the house during excavations.
One of the most famous elements of the house is the beautiful work known as the "Alexander mosaic", which was created during the reign of Alexander the Great. It depicts the Battle of Issus between the Persian King Darius. One of the most beautiful examples of Roman mosaic art. The identity of the owner of the house is not known exactly. Still, the magnificence of the residence suggests that it may have belonged to a wealthy and influential part of society.
#5 Lupanar
One of the most interesting and infamous buildings in the ancient city. It is believed to have been a brothel. The word "lupanar" comes from the word "lupa", which means "she-wolf" in Latin. The walls of Lupanar are decorated with explicit and erotic frescoes depicting various sexual acts and scenes.
#6 Bath of Pompeii
The local bath, also known as Terme del Foro or Forum, was a public bathhouse in the city. It was a vital social and cultural centre, providing space for bathing, recreation and socializing. It was located near the main public square of the city, the Forum.
The spa follows the layout of a typical Roman bathhouse - it consists of several rooms and areas. The main parts were the frigidarium (cold room) and the tepidarium (warm room). The interior of the spa was decorated with colourful frescoes and intricate mosaics.
#7 Villa of Mysteries
A well-preserved and mysterious villa is located outside the city walls. It is famous for its exceptional frescoes depicting scenes of mysterious religious rituals and ceremonies. The frescoes are highly symbolic and have given rise to various interpretations among scholars.
#8 Theatres
The city had several theatres, including bigger and smaller ones, where performances and plays were presented to the public. The Odeon was a smaller indoor theatre for musical performances, poetry readings and other cultural events. Its acoustics have been carefully planned. The seating area of the theatres, the so-called cave, was divided into different parts based on social status. The lower levels were reserved for the elite and dignitaries, while the higher levels were reserved for ordinary citizens.
#9 Temples
The city is home to many temples dedicated to gods and goddesses, reflecting its inhabitants' diverse religious beliefs and practices. Temples were of great cultural, social and spiritual importance in ancient Rome. A couple of temples to visit when you are here: Apollo, Jupiter and Venus.
#10 Plaster Casts
During excavations, archaeologists noticed cavities left by the decomposed bodies of victims buried by volcanic ash. Plaster was poured into the cavities to preserve these human forms, giving an image of the last moments of the victims' lives. The mould-making process was and still is the subject of ethical debate. While they provide valuable historical information and contribute to public awareness of the tragedy, many argue that it violates the deceased's dignity.
Season and opening hours
Pompeii welcomes visitors all year round, from January to December. Note that they are closed on Tuesdays. The main season lasts from April 1 to October 31. During this time, visitors are welcomed with extended opening hours. It is also important to know that the last entry is 1.5 hours before closing.
- Season: January - December
- Holiday: closed on Tuesdays
- Summer season: 04.01 - 10.31.
- Summer opening hours: 09:00 - 19:00 (cash register closes at 17:30)
- Winter season: 11.01. - 03.31.
- Winter opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00 (cash register closes at 15:30)
Prices
You can buy your tickets on the spot and pay by card or cash. For adults, the daily ticket costs 19-20 euros, which allows you to stay inside for an unlimited time. Children and adults under the age of 25 receive a discount.
- Daily admission: 19 euros
(We cannot track prices and opening hours in all cases so they may change in the meantime!)
History
Pompeii was founded around the 7th or 6th century BC by the Uzcans, an ancient Italian people. Over the centuries, it grew and prospered as a bustling port city and an important hub for trade.
- In the 4th century BC, it came under Roman authority and became part of the Roman Empire. It flourished under Roman rule and became a favourite destination for wealthy Romans.
- Since its rediscovery in 1748 following a volcanic disaster, it has been considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Its discovery opened an unparalleled window to the knowledge and interpretation of ancient Rome.
Sights in the area
Many natural attractions near Pompeii allow visitors to explore the region's beautiful landscapes and diverse natural wonders.
Mount Vesuvius
The most significant natural attraction near Pompeii is the 1,281-meter-high Mount Vesuvius. Despite its relatively modest height compared to other volcanoes, its eruption potential is enormous due to its proximity to densely populated areas. It is still an active volcano but can be visited during opening hours.
Mount Faito
Located on the Sorrento Peninsula, the mountain offers many hiking trails through lush forests. Its slopes offer a breathtaking view of the Amalfi Coast, the Bay of Naples and the island of Capri. It is easily accessible from Vico Equense and Castellammare di Stabia. You can reach the top by car or the Faito cable car along a winding road.
The trails have different levels. Mount Faito is a popular spot for paragliding. Strong winds and high vantage points create ideal conditions over the stunning coastal landscape. As an added bonus, there is also an observatory at the top of the mountain.
Sorrento
The coastal town offers a stunning panorama of the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius and the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida. It has an extremely charming old town with a real Mediterranean atmosphere. Sorrento is famous for the production of the traditional lemon liqueur, Limoncello.
Pompeii rose from the ashes to captivate the modern world with its ruins. It offers an unparalleled glimpse into the past and invites us to witness the triumphs and tragedies of an ancient world.
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