Pompeii is truly an unforgettable place to visit! A region once covered in a thick layer of volcanic rock and dirt, rediscovered after almost 2,000 years to showcase a historic city frozen in time. Its catastrophic demise has made it one of the worst destructions of all time, with the thriving city struck down by the powerful volcanic eruption of the nearby Mount Vesuvius. It’s incredibly preserved state and tragic history makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Italy. Even if you aren’t a history buff, Pompeii may surprise you for its beauty and incredible past.
1. It’s as close as you can get to time travelling
The 79 A.D. volcanic eruption buried the city of Pompeii under a thick layer of ash and dirt. The layer slowly hardened and became a blanket to hide the city from the world, with centuries passing before anyone re-discovered the buried kingdom. Because of this, the ruins are like a snapshot of time, with buildings still standing, artefacts remaining, and even skeletons of the citizens scattered about. Strolling through museums and watching documentaries are all well and good but walking down actual ancient streets of Pompeii lets you take a step back in time, visualising the life these ancient citizens lived without any trouble.
2. It’s a lesser-known neighbour; Herculaneum
Nearby Pompeii’s outer region is the small village known as Herculaneum. Most who visit Pompeii overlook this small town, preferring to stick to the famous attractions. However, I found Herculaneum a hidden gold mine, all due to the larger amount of stunning frescos and decorations preserved in the village. Back in the day, Herculaneum was quite a rich dwelling, with multiple grand houses and decorations still able to be seen today. Another plus to this attraction is the crowds, with Pompeii typically overcrowded, Herculaneum can be a nice break.
3. The incredible artwork found within
There is no doubt that one of the best highlights of Pompeii is its beauty. Stunning buildings with incredible architecture, beautiful public fountains covered in polychrome glass mosaics, and its biggest draw, the historic frescos found in both Pompeii’s public and private houses. These astonishing frescoes still display amazing colour and showcase a window into the ancient people’s lives and beliefs. Visit the Villa of the Mysteries, a Roman villa on the border of Pompeii which has a number of incredibly preserved frescos. The ancient brothel is another great spot to visit, with the frescos used as a menu for the individuals visiting the brothel. To get even more information about the artwork, join a Private Pompeii Guided Tour!
4. Being the home to world’s oldest Amphitheatre
Amphitheatres are renowned for their past productions in the glorious Roman gladiator fights and chariot racing. Being the base point for the majority of the ancient country’s entertainment. Pompeii’s amphitheatre is no different, built-in 70 B.C. it became the very first amphitheatre to be built by stone. The stadium once fit a whopping 12,000 people, and visitors are still welcome to take a seat and be taken back in time as you marvel at the impressive structure.
5. The ancient Bathhouses
Back in Pompeii time, bathing was not a private matter, but a public and social engagement where folk could relax and gossip with their friends. It was rare for anyone to have their own bathing quarters, instead opting to go to the public baths that were both grand and beautiful. These baths can still be seen today, with high ceilings and impressive artwork that showcase the grandeur of Pompeii people’s lifestyle.
Visit the Pompeii Tours website for more information!
Tour company: Sightseeing Tours Italy
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