Pompeii was an ancient Roman city located in the Campania region of Italy, near the Bay of Naples. It was a thriving Pompeii Ancient City with a population of around 11,000 people during the time of its destruction in 79 AD. Pompeii was situated at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, a stratovolcano known for its periodic eruptions.
On August 24, 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted catastrophically, spewing forth a deadly combination of ash, pumice, and volcanic gases. The eruption was so powerful that it ejected a massive column of ash and debris into the air, reaching a height of approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers). The volcanic material rained down on Pompeii and neighboring settlements, burying them under a layer of ash and pumice up to 20 feet (6 meters) deep.
The suddenness and intensity of the eruption caught the inhabitants of Pompeii by surprise. Many were unable to escape in time, and the city was quickly engulfed by volcanic ash and gases. The thick layer of volcanic debris preserved the city and its inhabitants, freezing them in time.
- Established: Tracing its roots back to the 7th–6th century BC, Pompeii boasts a rich and ancient history.
- Administrative Division: Falling within the jurisdiction of the Metropolitan City of Naples.
- Precise Position: Nestled at coordinates 40°45′0″N 14°29′10″E / 40.75000°N 14.48611°E, Pompeii occupies a strategic location.
- Area Size: Pompeii spans an area ranging from 64 to 67 hectares (approximately 170 acres), offering ample space for exploration and discovery.
- Location: Situated in Pompei, within the captivating Metropolitan City of Naples, Campania, Italy.
Historical Significance
Pompeii is one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world. Buried under volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, the city offers a unique snapshot of Roman life almost 2,000 years ago.
Archaeological Wonders
The ruins of Pompeii include well-preserved buildings, frescoes, mosaics, and artifacts. You can explore houses, temples, baths, and even an amphitheater, providing a deep insight into ancient Roman architecture and daily life.
Pompeii Visit Timing
April via October: 09:00 am – 7:00 pm (last entry at 05:30 pm)
November via March: 09:00 am – 05:00 am (last entry at 03:30 pm)
Closed: 25 December 2024, 1 January 2025
Pompeii Location
Pompeii Ancient City is located near the modern-day city of Naples in Italy, in the Campania region. It is situated about 14 miles (23 kilometers) southeast of Naples. The archaeological site of Pompeii can be easily accessed by various means of transportation, including trains, buses, and private tours. Visitors often start their tours from the entrance near the Pompeii Scavi-Villa dei Misteri train station, which provides convenient access to the ancient city’s ruins.
Pompeii Ticket Prices
Right now, a ticket for adults costs €16. But starting in January 2023, it will go up to €18. If you’re an EU citizen aged 18 to 25, Visitors can get a reduced ticket for just €2. This ticket lets visitors visit Pompeii and Villa Regina. Remember, each month on the first Sunday, visitors can get in for free! But make sure to grab their ticket fast because they run out quickly while visiting.
Best Sites to see in Pompeii Ancient City
Pompeii lay buried and forgotten for centuries until its rediscovery in the 18th century. Excavations began in the mid-18th century and have continued to the present day, revealing a remarkably well-preserved snapshot of ancient Roman life.
The excavations have unearthed an extensive array of buildings, including houses, temples, baths, theaters, and marketplaces. The city’s streets, with their well-preserved paving stones and cart ruts, offer a glimpse into the daily life of Pompeii’s inhabitants. Graffiti, artwork, and inscriptions provide further insights into the culture and society of ancient Rome.
The plaster casts of Pompeii’s victims, made by pouring plaster into cavities left by decomposed bodies, offer a poignant reminder of the human tragedy that unfolded during the eruption. These casts capture the final moments of Pompeii’s residents, frozen in time for posterity.
1. Big Theater and Small Theater (VIII – 10)
Pompeii’s two theaters are nearby. The Big Theater is where they did big shows like plays. The Small Theater was for poetry and music, it’s covered for good sound. Stand in the middle and talk, your voice gets louder!
2. Garden of the Escapers (I- 16)
The Garden of the Escapers was once homes but turned into vineyards as Pompeii grew. It’s named after 13 people who tried to run away during the eruption in 79 AD. Their bodies were found later and preserved in plaster.
3. Arena (II – 5)
Built in 70 BC, Pompeii’s Arena is really old but still looks great. People came here for sports and to watch fights. It had three parts for rich people, middle-class, and everyone else.
4. Giulia Felice’s Big House (II – 3)
Giulia Felice’s Big House is from the 1st century BC. It’s one of the first houses found during digging. The owner, Giulia Felice, advertised it for rent after an earthquake. Inside, it’s fancy with lots of decorations.
5. Brothel (VII – 18)
The brothel is a famous spot in Pompeii. It had two floors with small rooms. Each room had a bed and a picture on the wall. You can still find it easily by following the special pictures on the ground.
6. House of the Satyr (VI – 1)
The House of the Satyr is huge, about 3,000 square meters. It had places for the owners and for workers. There’s a statue of a satyr inside and lots of art, including a famous mosaic of a battle.
7. House of Secrets (VI – 19)
The House of Secrets was founded in 1909-1910. It was a big mystery! It might have belonged to a powerful family. The house had a special room with strange paintings showing a secret ritual.
8. Main Square (VII – 6a)
Pompeii’s main square is called the Forum. It’s big and important with fancy buildings and temples. People did lots of important stuff here, but no cars were allowed.
9. Big Building (VIII – 2)
The Big Building was like a courthouse in Pompeii. It was really important and had columns. People did business and law stuff here, especially if it was raining.
10. Venus Temple (VIII – 1)
The Venus Temple was built to honor the goddess Venus, who protected Pompeii and sailors. It was a big deal and got fancier over time. There was even a golden lamp inside, but now it’s in a museum.
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Frequently Ask Questions
Ques: Where is Pompeii located?
Ans: Pompeii is located in the Campania region of Italy, near the modern city of Naples. It was an ancient Roman city buried under volcanic ash and pumice after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Today, Pompeii is an archaeological site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Italy, offering a remarkable glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans.
The exact number of people who died in the explosion of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and the following defeat of Pompeii is anonymous. Estimates vary, but it is believed that thousands of people died in the disaster. The remains of around 1,500 individuals have been found at Pompeii and nearby Herculaneum, but it’s likely that many more residents and visitors were caught in the eruption.
Ques: Is Pompeii mentioned in the Quran?
The Quran primarily focuses on religious teachings, guidance, and narratives related to prophets, moral lessons, and the Day of Judgment. Somehow, The Quran mentions various ancient peoples and civilizations, including the people of Aad and Thamud. These references serve as examples of past nations who faced consequences due to their rejection of prophetic guidance.
For example, in Surah Al-A’raf (7:65), the people of Aad are mentioned, and in Surah Hud (11:61), both the people of Aad and Thamud are referenced. These references are used to convey moral lessons and warnings about the consequences of disbelief and disobedience to God’s guidance.
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