Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD and buried most of the city of Pompeii in 4 to 6 meters of volcanic ash and pumice. The estimated population of the 65 hectacre city at that time was 12,000 to 15,000 people and not all perished in the disaster. We spent a day exploring just a portion of the excavated remains of this ancient Italian city located near Naples. Excavation and restoration work continues in areas closed to visitors.

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Marcello, our very experienced and knowledgeable guide for the morning hours, explained that archeologists poured plaster into more than 1,000 hollowed out spaces in the ashes where people had died. The resulting casts gave the researchers information about the last few stressful moments of life. 

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Anfiteatro – Early excavation work uncovered the magnificent 20,000 seat amphitheater built around 70 BC. It is the first Roman amphitheater to be built of stone, rather than wood. 

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Foro – The large, rectangular Forum was surrounded by temples, a basilica, government buildings, and a market, resulting in a busy and important part of the city.

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Praedia di Giulia Felice – The large home of Giulia Felice included uncommon square columns and a large garden.

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Food – Marcello showed us several corner fast food restaurants from the first century. Shop keepers would set large bowls of prepared food in the round countertop openings. Customers would purchase “to go” food for themselves or their families no matter how large or small. Local bakeries ground their own grains for making breads and desserts. 

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Fountains – Residents of Pompei went to neighborhood fountains to obtain water. Each fountain we saw included a unique face or other artistic design.Fountains

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Passageways – We especially liked these two walkways.

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Streets – Stone streets in Pompeii were both pedestrian and vehicle friendly. Stepping stones imbedded in streets helped pedestrians keep their feet dry plus the stepping stones were far enough apart for carts, wagons, and chariots to travel down the street.

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Penises – Archeologists discovered penis symbols chiseled into street and wall stones. They concluded that the carvings are directional arrows to help brothel customers reach the correct destination. 

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