An extraordinary archaeological site, which fully gives the image of a Roman city in its entirety. Absolutely worth visiting, knowing at least a small part of its history.
Rich in traffic and pulsating with life, the city was as if crystallized by the famous eruption of 79 AD, during which a rain of ash and lapilli enveloped everything: houses, inhabitants, streets, public buildings and objects of daily life. Everything seemed to be “stuck” in a terrible instant.
Along its Ancient Streets it is possible to visit homes, both modest and rich, the Shops, the Forum with its public spaces and buildings, the Sacred areas, the Thermal Complexes and the buildings for entertainment in the Theater district and in the Amphitheatre.
Some of the most captivating and significant works of the Pompeii park
– the Forum
Political, economic and religious heart of the ancient Roman city.
A large rectangular space surrounded by public buildings and temples. The main structures of the Forum include: Temple of Jupiter, Temple of Apollo, Basilica, Building of Eumachia a priestess of the cult of Venus, Macellum the main market, Comitium for public meetings and elections.
– Triangular Hole
a lively and popular place, where various activities took place such as Religious Ceremonies, Public Meetings, Cultural Events and characterized by a series of buildings and structures including the Temple of Minerva and Hercules, the Temple of Jupiter Meilichius divinity associated with fertility and protection, the Temple of Aesculapius god of medicine, the Portico space for relaxation, Altars and Sacelli used for offerings and prayers.
– Amphitheatre
one of the most impressive and best preserved structures of the ancient Roman city. Built in the 1st century BC, it is one of the oldest stone amphitheaters to survive to the present day and offers a unique window into public life and gladiatorial spectacles of the Roman era.
The structure is made up of different levels of bleachers surrounding the central arena, where the fights took place.
– The Theatres
The city had two Theatres which today, although stripped of their marble and decorations, still host contemporary shows for a large audience.
Next to the large theater is a small theatrum tectum, an odeium inscribed in a square intended to support the roof.
– The Suburban Baths
Spa complex located just outside the walls of the ancient city, near the Porta Marina. These baths are a well-preserved example of Roman spa structures and offer a detailed insight into the hygiene and wellness practices of the era.
Consisting of several rooms, each with a specific function and famous for their well-preserved frescoes, which decorate the walls.
Mythological scenes, still lifes and decorative motifs are depicted, offering an idea of the refinement and luxury of the Roman baths.
Erotic Frescoes: Some of the decorations include erotic scenes, which were common in Roman baths and reflect the more liberal attitude towards sexuality in ancient Rome.
The testimony of the Sapphic love scene between two women remains unique.
Mosaics: The floors of the spa are often decorated with elaborate mosaics, which contribute to the luxurious atmosphere of the complex.
– The Villa of the Mysteries
By visiting the cubicle it will be possible to observe how extensive spatial research takes shape through the decorations.
known above all for its extraordinary frescoes which decorate the walls of one of the main rooms. Located on the outskirts of the ancient city, the villa offers a unique window into the life and culture of the Roman era.
The main room of the villa is decorated with a cycle of frescoes depicting scenes of initiation into a mystery cult, probably linked to Dionysus, the god of wine and inebriation.
– House of the Faun
One of the largest and most luxurious residences in Pompeii. It takes its name from a bronze statue of a dancing faun found in its atrium. The domus is famous for its mosaics, including the famous mosaic of Alexander the Great fighting against Darius.
– Garden of the Fugitives and the Victims of the Eruption
one of the most visited sites where the remains of thirteen people were found, including adults and children, who sought refuge in this area during the eruption of Vesuvius.
Their bodies were preserved thanks to the plaster cast technique, which made it possible to reproduce the shapes of the bodies and their last gestures.
– Praedia by Giulia Felice
The Domus, the Tabernae, the Baths and the Gardens, a residential and commercial complex located in Pompeii, known for its fascinating history and for the information it provides on the economic and social life of the ancient Roman city.
The complex takes its name from its owner, Giulia Felice, a rich and influential Pompeian businesswoman, a former slave who had obtained freedom and accumulated a considerable fortune.
After her husband’s death, she inherited a vast estate that included residential buildings, shops and spas. Giulia Felice managed these properties with great skill, renting them to various tenants and managing various commercial activities.
– Large gym
sports facility located in the Triangular Forum area, near the Amphitheatre. It was one of the main centers of physical and social activity in the city, used for training, exercise and athletic competitions.
– Necropolis of Porta Nocera
You can explore the tombs and funerary monuments, admire the inscriptions and decorations, and deepen your knowledge of Roman funerary practices.
The Oscans were the first inhabitants of the city of which we have evidence, who took turns in the 8th century BC. the Pelasgians who came from Greece, and whose presence is indicated by the remains of the Doric Temple; in the 5th century, then, like almost all of Campania, Pompeii became a Samnite city.
The excavations began in 1748, at the behest of Charles of Bourbon, King of the Two Sicilies. Initially, the area was brought to light which was later identified as Pompeii with part of Porta Ercolano, the temple of Isis and part of the theater district.
Subsequently, the house of the Faun was found with the mosaic illustrating Alexander’s battle. Over the years, other important buildings have been discovered, such as the Villa dei Misteri.
There are several historical and social anecdotes that concern it such as the famous brawl involving Pompeians and Nocerini during a gladiatorial show, the side in Catiline’s conspiracy against the Sullan colonists, the terrible earthquake of 62 AD. which almost razed it to the ground, followed by others of ever-increasing intensity.
Perhaps warning signs of that terrible event that occurred in 79 AD. he sealed the city within layers of ash.
The Archaeological Park of Pompeii is divided into regiones (quarters) and insule (isolates), a division made by Giuseppe Fiorelli in 1858. The names of the houses, coined by the excavators based on particular finds or other circumstances
Today visitors can access the Archaeological Park of Pompeii from three entrances which were located along the walls.
The Archaeological Park of Pompeii offers different visit options, including guided tours, audio guides and thematic visits. You can explore the site independently or take part in organized tours that delve into various aspects of Roman life. The park also hosts cultural events, temporary exhibitions and educational activities for schools and families.
How to get there
Pompeii is easily reachable by train from Naples station (Circumvesuviana) or by car.
Times and Entrance
Opening hours and ticket prices may vary, so it is advisable to consult the official website of the Pompeii Archaeological Park for updated information. You can purchase tickets online to avoid queues.
Tips for the Visit
Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather conditions, as the site is large and requires a lot of walking.
Sun Protection: Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
Planning: Dedicate at least a full day to the visit to explore the main attractions of the park.
– Porta Marina (via Villa dei Misteri)
– Piazza Esedra (Porta Marina Inferiore square)
– Piazza Anfiteatro (Immaculate Square)
Pompei (Naples)
Campania – Italy
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