Discover Pompeii: Archaeologist’s Guide

Pompeii: 2-Hour Guided Tour with an Archaeologist

Travel back to the days of the Roman Empire on a 2-hour tour of Pompeii. See the ruins of the town that was buried under molten ash by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD and explore its main sights.

Free cancellation. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserve now & pay later. Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.

Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.

Experience Highlights

Discover the main highlights of the ruins of Pompeii. Learn the story of how the city was buried under ash, and rediscovered in the 18th century. Visit the Forum, Thermal Baths, and an old brothel. See the plaster casts of humans and animals at the time of their death. Get expert insights from an archaeologist guide.

Explore the ruins of Pompeii on a 2-hour guided tour, and travel back to the days of the Roman Empire.

Meet your guide by the old Porta Marina Superiore for a tour of the western part of Pompeii, site of the most important public buildings, homes, and shops. Step into the shoes of the Roman citizens of Pompeii as you walk the same streets that they walked.

Learn how the town was buried under molten ash and lava by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. Your guide will bring the Roman Republic to life for an intense experience as you discover remarkably intact structures and learn how the Romans lived both in public and private.

Hear why UNESCO inscribed Pompeii and Herculaneum on the World Heritage Patrimony list for their "complete and vivid picture of society and daily life at a specific moment in the past that is without parallel anywhere in the world."

Discover highlights such as the Basilica (Court House), and Forum, center of political and social life during the Roman Empire. See the Lupanar (brothel), House of the Faun, Termopolium Capuano, and House of the Tragic Poet.

Marvel at plaster casts of humans and animals at the moment of their death. Go to a bakery where you can still see the remains of the utensils, and even the food.

Due to ongoing COVID-19 measures, you will be provided with disposable earphone for bigger groups. Guide. Skip-the-line admission fees.

Meet your guide by the Porta Marina Superiore, Pompeii.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes, Sunglasses, Sun hat, Water.

On the first Sunday of each month, entrance is free of charge, but as tickets can't be reserved ahead of time, entry is not guaranteed.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Pompeii: Life in the Ancient City

Pompeii, a city frozen in time, holds a wealth of secrets about life in ancient Rome. This archaeological marvel provides a unique glimpse into the daily routines, customs, and societal structures of a bygone era.

Located near modern-day Naples, Italy, Pompeii was a bustling city in the 1st century AD. Its tragic fate was sealed when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, burying the city under layers of ash and pumice. The volcanic eruption preserved the city, essentially freezing it in time.

The painstaking excavation efforts that began in the 18th century unearthed a wealth of artifacts and buildings, allowing us to piece together the puzzle of Pompeii's history.

Urban Planning and Architecture

The layout of Pompeii reveals a well-organized city, complete with streets, houses, temples, and public spaces. The city was divided into distinct regions, each with its own character and purpose. Notable structures include the Forum, a bustling public square, and the Amphitheatre, a venue for entertainment and events.

Private residences, known as villas, showcased the opulence and lifestyle of the elite. Intricate frescoes adorned the walls, depicting scenes from mythology and daily life. Commoners lived in smaller, more modest homes, providing insight into the socio-economic divide of the time.

Everyday Life

Through the preserved remnants of Pompeii, we gain intimate knowledge of daily routines. Kitchens, with their carbonized food remains, reveal culinary practices. Bathhouses, a significant part of Roman culture, exemplify hygiene rituals and social interactions.

The city's brothels, with their explicit murals, offer a glimpse into the less-discussed aspects of Roman society. Graffiti on the walls provides a candid view of the concerns, gossip, and advertisements of the time.

Religion and Worship

Pompeii was a hub of religious activity. Temples dedicated to various Roman deities dotted the cityscape. The Temple of Apollo, for instance, was a prominent religious center. In addition to Roman gods, there were also temples dedicated to Egyptian deities, reflecting the cosmopolitan nature of the city.

Religious ceremonies and festivals played a crucial role in the lives of Pompeii's inhabitants. These events brought the community together and provided an opportunity for social interaction and cultural expression.

Trade and Economy

Pompeii was a thriving commercial hub. Its strategic location near the Bay of Naples facilitated trade with other Mediterranean regions. The city boasted a bustling marketplace, known as the Macellum, where goods from far and wide were exchanged.

Artisans and craftsmen plied their trades, producing a wide array of goods from pottery to jewelry. The city's economic vitality is evident in the numerous workshops and storefronts that have been unearthed.

The Legacy of Pompeii

The excavation and preservation of Pompeii have been instrumental in shaping our understanding of ancient Roman life. The artifacts, structures, and insights gleaned from this city continue to captivate scholars and visitors alike.

Visiting Pompeii today is a journey back in time, a chance to walk the same streets and enter the same buildings as those who lived nearly two millennia ago. It is a testament to the enduring power of archaeology to illuminate the past.

FAQs

What caused the destruction of Pompeii?

Pompeii was destroyed in 79 AD when Mount Vesuvius, a nearby volcano, erupted, burying the city under ash and pumice.

How was Pompeii rediscovered?

In 1748, excavations began at the site of Pompeii, uncovering its remarkably preserved remains and providing invaluable insights into Roman life.

What are some of the most significant findings in Pompeii?

Some of the most significant findings in Pompeii include well-preserved frescoes, carbonized food remains, and explicit murals in the city's brothels.