Complete Walking Tour of Pompeii
As an archaeologist, I had the remarkable opportunity to excavate a house in Pompeii alongside my university professor. This unforgettable experience deepened my connection with Pompeii, a place that continues to captivate me with its unique charm. For anyone who visits, Pompeii offers an unforgettable glimpse into the construction of a Roman city, showcasing its public, private, civil, and religious dimensions.
Overview of Pompeii
Pompeii was an ancient Roman city situated near what is now Naples in Italy. Originally a small agricultural settlement, it evolved into a thriving city thanks to its strategic location near the Bay of Naples and the fertility of its volcanic soil.
The catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 entombed the city, preserving it in remarkable detail. This disaster froze Pompeii in time, leaving behind a priceless archaeological record of Roman life and a vivid snapshot of a civilization that profoundly shaped the course of history.
The History of Pompeii
- Greek Influence: Before becoming part of the Roman Empire, Pompeii was heavily influenced by Greek culture, similar to other cities in southern Italy. Greek traders established posts in the region, contributing to the city’s cultural growth.
- Roman Conquest: In the 5th century BC, Pompeii fell under the control of the Samnites, an Italic tribe. By the 4th century BC, it was absorbed into the expanding Roman Republic during the Samnite Wars, and under Roman rule, Pompeii thrived as a commercial hub.
- Prosperity and Urban Development: The 1st century BC marked a period of significant growth for Pompeii, with the construction of numerous public buildings, temples, theaters, and luxurious villas. The city became a bustling center of commerce, art, and culture.
- Mount Vesuvius Eruption: On August 24 (or October), 79 AD, Pompeii was devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The eruption buried the city under a thick layer of ash and pumice, preserving its ruins for centuries.
- Rediscovery: Pompeii remained buried until its rediscovery in the 18th century. Since then, ongoing excavations have provided invaluable insights into daily life in ancient Rome.
- Archaeological Significance: Today, Pompeii is a site of immense historical and cultural importance, attracting millions of visitors annually. The preserved ruins offer a rare window into the architecture, art, and daily life of the ancient Romans.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Life Expectancy and Height: How long did the people of Pompeii live on average, and what was their average height?
- Workday Length: How long was a typical workday in Pompeii?
- Wealth and Leisure: Who were the wealthiest citizens, and how did they spend their leisure time?
- Origins of Slaves: Where did the slaves in Pompeii originate from?
I am happy to provide answers to these and any other questions you may have.
Itinerary
The guided tour of Pompeii lasts approximately four hours, covering the following highlights:
*This tour can be customized according to your interests.
Meeting Point & Tour Duration
Meeting Point: At the ticket office of Pompeii, known as “Porta Esedra,” located by the Hotel Vittoria.
Duration: 4 hours
What’s Included
- Guiding services
Estimated Local Cash Needed
22 € – Admission fees to enter the ruins of Pompeii (Pompeii Plus ticket).
Note: Admission is free for visitors under 18 years old.