Pompeii, an ancient Roman city near modern Naples in Italy. Famously buried under volcanic ash and pumice during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, preserving it as a unique archaeological site.
Sitting near Naples in Italy, Pompeii was an ancient Roman city that was tragically buried under volcanic ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, which preserved it remarkably well as an archaeological time capsule. Today, you can explore the ruins which offer a glimpse into daily Roman life with intact streets, homes, public buildings, and even poignant plaster casts of the city's inhabitants frozen in their final moments. Pompeii's evocative remnants not only reveal the advanced engineering and artistry of the ancient Romans but also provide a haunting reminder of the devastating power of nature.
The Eruption Was in 79 AD: Mount Vesuvius erupted on August 24, 79 AD and went on to bury Pompeii under volcanic ash, preserving it for centuries.
It Was a Sudden Disaster: It’s suggested that the eruption lasted for about 24 hours, covering Pompeii in ash, while nearby Herculaneum was buried in mud and lava.
Pliny the Younger Witnessed It: The Roman writer ‘Pliny the Younger’ documented the eruption, giving historians valuable first-hand details.
A City Frozen in Time: Pompeii’s ruins are so well-preserved that archaeologists have found buildings, frescoes, mosaics, and even graffiti intact.
Plaster Casts of Victims: Archaeologists used plaster to fill voids left by bodies in the ash, which have created eerie casts that show people's final moments before they were frozen in time.
Not Just Ash – But Toxic Gas: Many Pompeiians likely died from inhaling toxic fumes before being buried in ash.
Mount Vesuvius is Still Active: Mount Vesuvius last erupted in 1944 and remains one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world due to its proximity to Naples.
Pompeii Was Lost for 1,500 Years: The city was forgotten until its rediscovery in 1748, when excavations began.
Hidden Art Was Censored: Many erotic frescoes that were found in Pompeii were actually hidden away in the Naples Archaeological Museum due to their explicit nature!
Tips for Visiting Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius
Arrive Early: Pompeii is huge, and it does get crowded, so we suggest starting early to beat the rush.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: It may sound silly, but the ancient streets are uneven and made of stone, so we strongly suggest comfortable shoes.
Bring Water & Snacks: It can get very hot, and there are limited food options inside Pompeii.
Use a Guide or Audio Tour: Our Pompeii tickets come with the option of an audio guide which will help you understand what you’re seeing. Take advantage of the audio guide!
Visit the Naples Archaeological Museum: Many of Pompeii’s best-preserved artifacts, including mosaics and frescoes, are displayed there. Click HERE to see ticket options.
Hike Vesuvius for a View: You can hike to the crater for an incredible view of Naples and the surrounding area.
Buy Tickets in Advance: Skip the long lines by booking your tickets online before your visit. See above for options.
Respect the Site: Pompeii is an archaeological treasure, so don’t climb on ruins or take anything as a souvenir.
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