About this experience
Every time I visit this museum city, I am thrilled to encounter history. Only here can it be literally felt with hands, absorbing the unique aura of death because for a long time, buried under a layer of volcanic materials, the city was a giant common grave for its inhabitants.
There are many smart books written about the tragedy that occurred as a result of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in the 1st century AD, but none of them can replace your personal experience of what the Pompeii museum shows. The modern excavation area covers 44 hectares, and of course, walking through all of it is quite a challenge for your feet, especially if you don't know what must be seen for sure and what is duplicated many times and is in a much better condition but on a neighboring street.
Program
There are many museums in the world where the ruins of past centuries are presented in all their diversity. But Pompeii is not just ruins, it is a city that has preserved its streets, theaters, baths, and forum. By guiding you through the most interesting corners of this museum, I will introduce you to its main attractions in a relatively short time.
- We will start with the Gladiator Barracks, where until the earthquake of 62 AD, there was a portico where the city's residents met during breaks while watching performances at the Large and Small Theaters, which we will also visit. The amazing acoustics of these structures are in demand by the artists of the San Carlo theater; even today, the voices of Italy's great singers sound within these walls.
- We will peek into the house of a wealthy citizen, where wall frescoes, household items, remains of its owners, and more are wonderfully preserved.
- We will imagine ourselves as visitors to the Roman baths, especially since this complex is well preserved.
- Next, we will enter the welcoming shade of a public house, where the remaining wall paintings will tell us all the secrets of sin, and we will learn what kind of underwear (from the frescoes) Roman beauties wore.
- We will visit the Forum and markets of ancient Pompeii, and as we leave the excavation area, we will enter the walls of the temple of the god Apollo, which scientists date back to the 6th century BC.
- If desired, you can extend the route and take a walk to the Villa of Mysteries - the suburban residence of Emperor Augustus.
I hope I have sparked your interest, and you, while visiting Italy, will find the time to explore its Main Museum.
Organizational Details
- Entrance ticket cost - 11 euros. Free for children under 18 (with a document).
- Depending on your preference, we can meet in Pompeii or drive together in your car or one rented by me (for an additional fee) from Naples.
