Pompeii was a small town at the base of the infamous Volcano Mt. Vesuvius in Italy.
In the year 79 A.D, Vesuvius dramatically erupted and buried the city of Pompeii under a thick layer of volcanic ash. Thousands of people died, and the town essentially became stuck in time by the volcanic ash which preserved the remains of the inhabitants and artifacts of Pompeii.
The famous city of Pompeii
Pompeii is located in Italy’s southern region of Campania, close to Naples. It was once a thriving Roman city and was home to over 10,000-20,000 people at the time of the famous volcanic eruption. Pompeii is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy, with over 2 million visitors annually. Visiting Pompeii today you will be amazed at over 15,000 buildings, thousands of artworks and artifacts that have been frozen in time since the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius many years ago. It is an absolute must see when you are in Italy and the best way to experience it is by taking a guided tour through the ruins, where your tour guide will tell you stories and facts that you may not otherwise have known.
The eruption of Mt. Vesuvius
The eruption of Mt. Vesuvius is undoubtedly one of the most famous volcanic eruptions in history. The volcano itself is still active, therefore it is expected to erupt again. The famous eruption in 79 A.D lasted two whole days and covered a large region of Italy in thick black ash clouds for weeks. The majority of the population of Pompeii managed to escape the carnage in time, however those remaining who did not make it out on time were most likely killed by the ash suffocation, rather than the lava itself.
The discovery of Pompeii
The ruins of Pompeii were first discovered in the late 16th century by architect Domenico Fontana. They began to excavate the site in 1748 and were amazed by what they were to find. Pompeii is known as the first major archaeological site in the modern world and paved the way for archeology in the future. Excavation continues for the next several centuries, where archaeologists continued to find new remnants and artefacts of the city. Pompeii was so well preserved due to volcanic ash that covered everything not allowing for the elements to decompose. However, since it has been uncovered, it has been a tireless effort to ensure that the ruins are preserved, as they are now subjected to weathering, light exposure, erosion, and the adverse effects of tourism.
Pompeii today
Pompeii today is essentially a huge restoration process. The last decades have seen the collapse of many of the most famous buildings in Pompeii. The Great Pompeii project was created by a team of specialist professionals whose job was to ensure that the ruins were given the best chance at survival for the future. If you get the chance to visit Pompeii, you must take it. It is one of the most incredible historical locations in the world and you will certainly be impressed by all that it entails!
Related article: Did anyone survive in Pompeii?
Recommended Pompeii Tours: Pompeii Tour from Rome
Price: €120
Company: Sightseeing Tours Italy
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