Pompeii is an ancient city located in Italy close to the still active volcano, Mt. Vesuvius. The city has been a famous archeological site for some time. Researchers continue to discover more of the city and its mysteries. This beautiful, uncovered city should be on your bucket list for Italy.
Visit Pompeii – Brush Up On Your History
Most of us have heard the song “Pompeii”, but do you know the history behind what happened there? You can learn about the volcanic eruption that caused the city to be buried in lava when you visit. Much of the city is still buried, but the excavated areas are truly something to marvel at. If you explore the city, be sure to get some sort of tour or at least an audio guide. It can take you through the city in a specific order, or you can guide yourself using the maps and choose the correct section to listen to while you’re there. It will tell you about everything you want to know from specific buildings to cultural norms.
There are casts that show how adults, children, and even dogs were positioned when they were caught by this unexpected event. The audio guide will inform you about the specifics and how people thought to make casts. The interesting, somewhat depressing facts seem to be endless.
Visit Pompeii – Explore Ancient Ruins
Different areas of the city are dedicated to different things. There is an amphitheatre and a marketplace, and there are several houses, bakeries, baths, roads, bars, and more. Pompeii is now surrounded by greenery and uncovered artifacts. The beauty of the stone city is astounding. When you enter and get a feeling for how large it was, you start to feel like you could explore it for a week and still not see everything. Learn more about tours, tickets, and other information on this Pompeii website.
Visit Pompeii – Learn About Mt. Vesuvius
Mt. Vesuvius is responsible for Pompeii’s destruction, but it is a remarkable landmark. If you visit the volcano, you can hike up to the caved-in crater and see an incredible view of the surrounding plains overlooking the Medditerranean Sea. Tour guides can answer more of the when, why, how questions about the eruption. The site of the volcano itself is something to behold. It’s amazing to think that so much development has occurred in the area despite the fact that Mt. Vesuvius is still an active volcano. If you’re interested in learning more about Mt. Vesuvius, this website is a great resource.
Find Out How People Lived
I found it incredibly interesting to learn the customs and how they made a living. I saw several tools and innovative ways that they solved problems. There were grain grinders, wells, scales, pots, and a variety of metal and wooden tools. Their sidewalks were elevated above the streets. Their sidewalk network was made complete with elevated crosswalks for people to use so that they didn’t have to step down into the dirty, muddy streets while crossing the road. The large gaps allowed carts to pass by easily. Some houses had paintings on the walls in place of windows to give the illusion of a view of the outdoors.
Visit Surrounding Areas
Sorrento, Capri Island, the Amalfi Coast, and Naples are all just a train/ bus/ boat ride away from Pompeii. Naples is known for its delicious Italian food (of course, there it’s just called “food”). Capri Island is the home of the Caprese Salad and many beautiful views. This Island is full of hidden hikes and paths through little villages. The Amalfi Coast boasts incredible views if you’re up for the hike that lines the cliff along the coast. Sorrento is the original home of Limoncello. You can also explore shops in Sorrento’s main plaza and eat at a restaurant with an incredible view of the Bay.
No matter which of these reasons appeals to you, your visit to Pompeii will surely not disappoint. The experience feels like you are stepping into the past and having a sneak peak into the lives of people that lived thousands of years ago. I didn’t know that I would enjoy learning about the past so much before I went and listened to the audio guide describe living conditions and traditions of the ancient Roman city.