Pompeii Excavatioans   

The eruption which hit the important Roman town of Pompeii in 79 AD was no doubt the most catastrophic in the memory of man. The excavations began in the 17th century, prompted by chance findings, and were thoroughly carried on since 1754. The excavations demonstrated that Pompeii was a flourishing town of about 20.000 inhabitants committed to trade;  it was obliterated in one August day of the year 79 AD.  A mountain of lapilli and ash engulfed this pleasant town with all that was alive in it. From the period many gracious artefacts have been brought to light and can be viewed in the Museo Nazionale and in the Antiquarium in Pompei. Imposing buildings with magnificent architectural decorations stood in Pompeii. The Amphitheatre the Forum, the Thermae, the Basilica, the Villa of Mysteries, the house of Giulio Polibio, etc.


Click to enlarge excavation map ->