Pompeii: Discover the fascinating archaeological site at the foot of Mount Vesuvius!

Pompeii, at its zenith, was an epitome of Roman cosmopolitanism. Beyond the imposing public structures, there's a palpable intimacy in the narrow lanes that wind between private homes. Wandering through these streets, visitors get a first-hand experience of ancient urban life. The grandeur of wealthy villas showcases the opulence of the city's elite, while simpler abodes hint at a bustling middle class. Beautiful frescoes narrate tales from mythology, showcase landscapes, and sometimes even document daily chores. Mosaics, crafted painstakingly, not only serve as an art form but also provide a peek into Roman tastes, humor, and societal observations.

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius didn’t just change the course of Pompeii's history; it effectively froze it in time. Rather than the lava flows we associate with typical volcanic eruptions, Pompeii was ensnared in a dense, deadly rain of ash and pumice. While this cataclysm brought life to a screeching halt, it inadvertently created a protective blanket over the city. As centuries rolled on, the ash layers ensured that much of Pompeii, from grand amphitheaters to delicate artifacts like pottery, jewelry, and even scrolls, remained untouched by time. This unparalleled preservation makes the city a living time capsule, offering us detailed insights into Roman life and culture.

As the city was being excavated in the 19th century, voids were discovered in the compacted ash layers. These voids, which were the decomposed remains of humans, animals, and even objects, presented an opportunity for archaeologists. By injecting plaster into these spaces, they were able to capture the poignant last moments of Pompeii’s denizens. Each cast, whether of a person cradling their child or of a dog forever mid-stride, is a silent but powerful reminder of the human stories behind the archaeological data.

The cityscape of Pompeii was dotted with a variety of facilities that exemplified the dynamism of the city. The public baths, divided into sections for men and women, were a center of social interaction and often featured swimming pools, sports rooms and saunas. They underline the importance that the Romans attached to hygiene and conviviality. The stores and eateries, with their counters and menus decorated with pictures, were frequented by the urban population and offered everything from fast food to fine wines. The brothels, like the Lupanar, are not only a charming example, but also an important sociological indicator of a society in which sexuality was both a commodity and an open topic of conversation.  

Although historical records such as those of Pliny the Younger place the eruption of Mount Vesuvius on August 24, 79 AD, recent findings have cast doubt on this timeline. During recent excavations, a charcoal inscription was found that suggests the eruption may have occurred in October. The discovery of pomegranates, a fruit that is not harvested until the fall, also supports this new timeline. This debate over the exact date adds a touch of modern mystery to the ancient stories about Pompeii. 

April 1st to October 31st
Daily: 09:00 am – 7:00 pm.
The last admission is at 5:30 pm. 

November 1st to March 31st
Daily: 09:00 am – 5:00 pm.
The last admission is at 3:30 pm. 

During the Turbopass ordering process, you must specify the date on which you wish to visit the Pompeii Archaeological Park. 

By train: Porta Marina, Piazza Esedra: Circumvesuviana Napoli-Sorrento (stop Pompei Villa dei Misteri)- Piazza Anfiteatro: Circumvesuviana Napoli - Poggiomarino (stop Pompei Santuario)- Train FS Napoli-Salerno (stop Pompei) 

By Bus:SITA from Napoli and SalernoBUSITALIA Campania n. 4 from SalernoBUSITALIA Campania n. 50 express coach from Salerno (by motorway) 

By car: Motorway A3 Napoli-Salerno (exit Pompeii ovest) 

Visiting Pompeii Archaeological Park isn't just an excursion; it's a transformative experience. In a rapidly changing world where the past gets easily overshadowed, Pompeii serves as a tangible, unfiltered link to an era gone by. Every cobblestone, mural, and plaster cast invites you to pause, reflect, and linger. On this journey through time, you don't just observe history - you can feel it. And it is this emotional connection that makes Pompeii an indispensable chapter in the book of world heritage.