Walking Tour of Pompeii’s Best Buildings

For me, Pompeii is a truly magical place, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the architecture and daily life of a Roman city, encompassing its public, private, civil, and religious elements.

Pompeii: A Snapshot of History

Pompeii was an ancient Roman city situated near modern-day Naples, Italy. Originally a small agricultural settlement, it grew into a thriving city thanks to its strategic location near the Bay of Naples and its rich volcanic soil.

The catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 buried the city under layers of ash, preserving it in extraordinary detail. This natural disaster halted time, leaving behind a well-preserved testament to Roman civilization, a culture that shaped history and left a lasting legacy.

A Brief History of Pompeii

• Greek Influence: Before becoming a Roman city, Pompeii was heavily influenced by Greek culture, as were many other cities in the region. The Greeks, who had established trading posts throughout southern Italy, contributed significantly to the cultural development of Pompeii.
• Roman Conquest: In the 5th century BC, Pompeii came under the control of the Samnites, another Italic tribe. By the 4th century BC, it was absorbed into the Roman Republic during the Samnite Wars. Under Roman rule, Pompeii thrived as a commercial and trading center.
• Prosperity and Urban Development: During the 1st century BC, Pompeii enjoyed a period of great growth and prosperity. The city expanded, with the construction of public buildings, temples, theaters, and luxurious villas. It became a bustling center of commerce, art, and culture.
• Mount Vesuvius Eruption: The most significant event in Pompeii’s history occurred on August 24 (or possibly October), AD 79, when Mount Vesuvius erupted with devastating force. The eruption buried Pompeii and nearby towns under thick layers of ash and pumice, preserving them remarkably well for centuries.
• Rediscovery: Pompeii remained buried and forgotten for centuries until it was rediscovered in the 18th century. Excavations began in the mid-1700s and continue to this day, offering invaluable insights into daily life in ancient Rome.
• Archaeological Site: Today, Pompeii is a site of immense historical and cultural significance, attracting millions of visitors annually. The ruins, streets, buildings, and artifacts offer a fascinating window into the daily life, architecture, art, and society of ancient Rome.

Tour Itinerary

The tour of Pompeii lasts approximately 3 hours. During the guided tour, you will visit:

*This tour can be customized to meet your specific interests.

Meeting Point and Duration

• Meeting Point: At the ticket office of Pompeii, “Porta Esedra,” near the Hotel Vittoria.
• Duration: 3 hours

What’s Included

• Guiding services

Estimated Local Cash Needed

• 18 € – Admission fees to enter the ruins of Pompeii (free for those under 18).