We travel to Pompeii, the impressive city where time stopped thousands of years ago.
One of Europes most iconic archaeological sites, Pompeii is an experience that remains unforgettable for every visitor. A city in southern Italy, very close to popular Naples, founded in the 8th century BC by the Oscans, which saw great prosperity as well as a great downfall.
In an ideal location at the foot of Vesuvius, with a very pleasant climate, Pompeii very quickly became at that time a major resort of ancient Rome. It was a city brimming with life, with country villas of wealthy Romans, adorned with important works of art and heirlooms. However, everything darkened in August AD 79 with the eruption of Vesuvius and the lava that buried the entire city and turned it to ash.
Today, Pompeii seems frozen in time, on that day of destruction. Along the streets preserved by the ash you will encounter the ancient villas, theaters and baths, bearing witness to the daily life of an entire society nearly 2,000 years ago. If its your first visit to Pompeii, its wise to plan so you can discover the most important sights.
The sights of Pompeii
With a visit to Pompeii, a journey into the distant past begins. The eruption of Vesuvius, in addition to Pompeii, buried under ash the Ancient Herculaneum, as well as several other neighboring settlements. The eruption was described by Pliny the Younger, who was an eyewitness to the disaster. The destruction of Pompeii captivates the worlds imagination not so much for its ominous story, as for the incredible preservation of the city.
The first discoveries were made by chance in the mid-16th century, during work on the construction of the underground aqueduct of the nearby town of Torre Annunziata. Systematic excavations officially began around 1750 and from then until today new discoveries keep coming to light, alongside the conservation of the objects that have been found over the years.
One third of the ancient city still lies hidden beneath volcanic debris, but streets and squares, markets, temples, theaters and baths have emerged that constitute an important part of the history of all of Italy. On that day, along with the city, its inhabitants were also buried, with the exact number of the thousands of people who were there still unconfirmed.
In essence the city of Pompeii is a vast archaeological park. One of the most important sights you will encounter in Pompeii is the magnificent amphitheater, which holds 15,000-20,000 spectators. This is where the gladiatorial bouts and the citys performances took place and, unlike other Roman amphitheaters, this one has no underground section. The Temple of Apollo is one of the citys most characteristic structures, as is the House of Menander (Casa del Menandro), a grand mansion that offers a unique glimpse into the opulent life of ancient Rome, with elaborate architecture, decorative elements and an extensive collection of everyday objects.
The heart of the city was the famed Agora (Forum) with Vesuvius as a backdrop, which was the center of commerce, politics, culture and religion. There you will gain an intriguing picture of Roman public life in the center of Pompeii, as well as of the architecture of the period reflected in the Forums buildings. You will also see the plaster casts of the victims from the volcanos eruption. Villa dei Misteri is arguably the most impressive villa, with the famous Dionysian fresco cycle that evokes a cinematic screen, as well as the Lupanar (brothel), known for its erotic frescoes.
In 2024 there was a new discovery, as excavations brought to light an imposing banqueting hall, with frescoes on themes inspired by the Trojan War depicting Helen and Paris. In early 2025 a luxurious bath complex was discovered that could host up to 30 guests. In the Insula dei Casti Amanti area, you will see the excavations that are underway.
The best time to visit Pompeii
The archaeological site of Pompeii is open throughout the year, with more than three million visitors annually. However, the best time to visit is spring and autumn. In the summer months the heat is very intense, as is the crowding. Winter is a quieter period, but its rainier and you need to wear warm clothes. The best hours to enjoy your exploration are early in the morning or late in the afternoon so you dont encounter many tour groups.
How much time you will need
Exploring Pompeii will take you at least three to four hours. In a few hours you can pass by the sights and get a good taste of the archaeological site. However, its worth dedicating about a day so you can learn more about the history and the lives of the inhabitants. If your time is limited, prefer to enter from the Piazza Anfiteatro entrance and head straight to the Forum. If you visit the Archaeological Park during peak periods, its better to book your ticket in advance.
How to get there
From Naples by car the drive takes about 30 minutes and there is parking in the area. A popular option is the train departing from Piazza Garibaldi station in Naples and terminating at Pompei Scavi Villa Dei Misteri, which takes about 40 minutes. The main entrance is Porta Marina, but the least crowded one is Piazza Anfiteatro.
