Pompeii: Still Not Fully Uncovered
The ruins of Pompeii, destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79, are one of the best-preserved examples of an ancient Roman city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can see houses, theatres, baths, and many other buildings in excellent condition. Visiting Pompeii is a journey back in time, revealing life from two thousand years ago. Allocate a minimum of 4-5 hours to see the main sites like the amphitheatre, Lupanar, Forum, House of the Faun, and the mysterious Villa of the Mysteries. This place is full of history, fascinating and educational.
Pompeii has been excavated since the mid-18th century, revealing new areas every year. What you see today may not have been accessible a year ago, and discoveries are still waiting. So far, about 70% of the city has been uncovered. Each visit differs from previous years, bringing new impressions and discoveries.
Some exhibits, houses, and areas are only available temporarily, on specific days or hours. Thus, the attraction you wish to see might be closed on a specific day. When I visited Pompeii, several places were temporarily closed. So, I have a few photos taken through bars or glass doors.
On the official Pompeii website, you can check the opening hours of specific attractions. The schedule is valid from the beginning of April to the end of October and can be checked at pompeiisites.org/en/houses.
Before Visiting Pompeii
Before your visit, it is worth looking at a map of the city and marking the attractions that interest you the most. It is challenging to see everything in one visit. The area is vast. In the middle of summer, you will encounter not only crowds of tourists and queues for each attraction but also intense heat. Ancient Pompeii is an open site, with little shelter from the sun. It is easy to get lost and lose track of where you have been and where you are going. A specific plan will help you organize the order of the districts and attractions. With a plan, you will not miss anything.
Pompeii is a unique attraction, one of a kind in the world. Take your time, plan enough time for your visit, and it certainly will not be time wasted!
Historical Pompeii: What the City Looked Like
Ancient Pompeii was a bustling city. It was located on the slopes of a hill formed by prehistoric lava, rising 40 meters above sea level, by the Sarnus River. The city was carefully planned around the Triangular Forum, with a regular grid of streets dividing Pompeii into nine zones with different functions. The streets had a sewage system, and aqueducts supplied water to fountains, baths, and wealthier homes.
Inns, taverns, shops, and workshops lined the main streets. Residential houses were beautifully decorated, often with atriums and peristyles (internal courtyards or gardens with columns). In the city centre were important public buildings such as the theatre, forum with basilica, curia, temples, three gymnasiums, baths, and amphitheatre with gladiator barracks. Near the city gates were hotels and stables for pack animals.
Over time, Pompeii grew and evolved, with larger residences built by combining older houses and adding floors. Despite transformations, the city retained its charm and unique character. Walking through its streets, one could feel the ancient atmosphere and admire the architecture that has survived the centuries.
Polish Accent in Pompeii: Sculptures by Igor Mitoraj
Walking through Pompeii, you might notice extraordinary sculptures standing out against the ancient ruins. These contemporary artworks are by Igor Mitoraj, a Polish-French sculptor. He was known for his monumental sculptures inspired by classical Greek and Roman art. The Mitoraj sculpture exhibition began in 2016, two years after the artist’s death, aiming to blend contemporary art with Pompeii’s ancient heritage.
The choice of Mitoraj was not accidental. His works feature fragmented human forms, fitting perfectly with the context of ancient ruins. The artist drew on classical patterns and motifs, creating sculptures that seem part of the ancient world while carrying a modern message.
The idea for the exhibition arose from a desire to create a dialogue between the past and the present. Mitoraj’s sculptures, strategically placed in the archaeological park, enrich the visual space and encourage visitors to reflect on the fragility of human life and the permanence of art. Thus, while walking through Pompeii, you can admire historical ruins and contemporary artworks that harmoniously coexist with the ancient surroundings.
The Igor Mitoraj sculpture exhibition in Pompeii is a tribute to an artist whose work perfectly merges with the spirit of the ancient city, creating a unique and inspiring space for visitors.
This temporary exhibition, featuring nearly 30 works, was open until the end of May 2017. After that, most of the exhibits moved on, but a few pieces remain in Pompeii permanently.
Pompeii – Top Attractions
What is worth seeing in Pompeii? Here is my personal choice list. Take what appeals to you the most.
Forum
The Forum in Pompeii is the heart of the ancient city and one of the most fascinating places to visit. Known for its impressive architecture and historical significance, the Forum was the central point of social, political, and commercial life in Pompeii. Located in the city’s centre, it served as the main public square where residents met, traded, and participated in public events. Pack animals were not allowed in the Forum.
Numerous buildings with various purposes, including temples, a basilica, market halls, and administrative offices surround the Forum. Among the most important structures are the Temple of Jupiter, the Basilica, and the Eumachia Building—a commercial building funded by the priestess Eumachia.
Visiting the Forum allows you to feel the ancient city’s atmosphere and imagine its inhabitants’ daily lives. Walking around the square, you should notice the triumphal arches, colonnades, and paved streets that have remained well-preserved despite the passage of centuries. The Forum in Pompeii was also the site of important public events, religious processions, and political gatherings, making it a key element in discovering the city’s history.
⇒ Map Position: VII.8 Pompeii. Forum South Side
Basilica
The Basilica in Pompeii is one of the most important and impressive sites in the ancient city. Known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance, it was a central point of social, political, and legal life in Pompeii. Located on the western side of the Forum, it dates to the 2nd century BC, making it one of the oldest buildings in the city.
The Basilica was used as a meeting place and a court, where legal and commercial matters were discussed. Its monumental structure, with high columns and a spacious nave, reflects the advanced building technology and the wealth of Pompeii’s inhabitants.
Visiting the Basilica, you can admire its architectural details, which have remained well-preserved despite the passage of centuries. Here, you can feel the spirit of antiquity and imagine the daily lives of Pompeii’s residents before the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius.
⇒ Map Position: VIII.1.1 Pompeii. Basilica
Large Theatre and Odeon
In Pompeii, there are two theatres located in the same part of the ancient city. The Large Theatre (Teatro Grande) is an open amphitheatre where Greco-Roman plays were performed. It was built in the Greco-Roman style. It could accommodate up to 5,000 spectators on its semi-circular seating, providing excellent visibility during open-air performances.
The Odeon, the smaller of the two theatres, was used for poetry and musical performances, offering a covered space for about 1,500 spectators. The Odeon’s roof provided excellent acoustics, allowing performances even in unfavourable weather conditions. This intimate venue was used for poetry recitations and music concerts, playing a significant role in the cultural life of Pompeii.
⇒ Map Position: VIII.7.20 Pompeii. Teatro Grande or Large Theatre
Amphitheatre
The Amphitheatre in Pompeii is one of the oldest and best-preserved in the world. Used for sporting events and gladiatorial combat, it could hold 20,000 spectators in three sections: the front rows for prominent citizens, the middle for the middle class, and the highest (called summa) for the rest of the population. This impressive venue showcases advanced engineering and the social stratification of the ancient city. The Amphitheatre in Pompeii offers a unique insight into the daily life and entertainment of the Romans, making it a fascinating point on the archaeological map.
⇒ Map Position: II.6 Pompeii. Anfiteatro / Amphitheatre
House of Julia Felix
The House of Julia Felix is a large complex from the 1st century BC, one of the first houses discovered in Pompeii.
This patrician villa is surrounded by extensive gardens, with residential buildings and baths. The name comes from an inscription on the facade after the earthquake in AD 62, now displayed in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, where the owner advertised parts of the property for rent. The villa impresses with its rich decorations in both the residential and thermal sections.
⇒ Map Position: II.4.3 Pompeii. House of Julia Felix / Complesso di Giulia Felice / Praedia di Giulia Felice
House of the Faun
The House of the Faun (Casa del Fauno) is one of the largest and most spectacular residences in Pompeii. It covers about 3,000 square meters. Its name comes from a bronze statuette of a satyr placed in the impluvium. The villa includes areas for the owners and separate sections for the servants. It houses numerous sculptures, frescoes, and mosaics, the most famous being the mosaic depicting the Battle of Alexander the Great with Darius at Issus, now exhibited in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
⇒ Map Position: VI.12.2 Pompeii. Casa del Fauno / House of the Faun
Lupanar
The Lupanar is one of the most memorable sites in the ruins of Pompeii. It was a brothel with two levels: five small rooms on the ground floor and five on the upper floor. Each room had a stone bed with a mat or pillow, and erotic frescoes were placed above the doors, likely depicting the prostitutes’ specialities. The brothel is located between two side streets, easily recognizable by the phallic symbols on the pavement and the facades of nearby buildings.
⇒ Map Position: VII.12.18 Pompeii. The Brothel / Lupanare. Entrance on Vicolo del Lupanare
Villa of Mysteries
The Villa of Mysteries, discovered between 1909 and 1910, is one of the most fascinating villas in Pompeii. It likely belonged to the Istacidii family, powerful during the time of Augustus. Built in the 1st century BC, it was located outside the city walls, overlooking the sea. The central attraction is the Hall of Mysteries, a triclinium adorned with a mysterious cycle of paintings depicting a Dionysian ritual and initiation into the cult, with Dionysus and either Aphrodite or Ariadne at the centre.
⇒ Map Position: VI.19 Pompeii. Villa dei Misteri / Villa of Mysteries
Temple of Venus
The Temple of Venus, dedicated to the goddess Venus, the city’s patroness, and protector of sailors, was built in the latter half of the 2nd century BC on the Pompeii plain, overlooking the Sarno Valley and the sea. In the first half of the 1st century AD, it flourished with expansions, renovations, and marble decorations. The temple housed a large gold lamp, likely donated by Nero and his wife Poppaea, now displayed in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
⇒ Map Position: VIII.1.3 Pompeii. Temple of Venus. Entrance on Via Marina
Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo in Pompeii is one of the oldest places of worship, strategically located by the road to the Marina Gate. The structure, dating from the 6th century BC, was completely reconstructed between the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC. Before the volcanic eruption, it was a monumental building with an altar in the central courtyard, often used for gladiatorial games and theatrical ludi Apollinares, in honour of the god Apollo. Hellenistic bronze statues depicting Apollo and his sister Diana are now in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, with their copies displayed on-site.
⇒ Map Position: VII.7.32 Pompeii. Tempio di Apollo / Temple of Apollo
House of the Ceii
The austere facade of the house with white stucco and cubic capitals above the doorways allows appreciation of a rare example of a home from the 2nd century BC. The interior features an impluvium with bathing facilities made from amphora fragments set on edge, a technique also used in Greece and present in Pompeii, for example in the House of the Ancient Hunt.
On the back garden wall, there is a motif of wild animals, popular in open space decoration. The side walls depict Egyptian landscapes with animals of the Nile Delta, suggesting the owner’s connection to the cult of Isis, popular in Pompeii’s final years. From the electoral inscription on the facade, it can be inferred that the house probably belonged to the magistrate Lucius Ceius Secundus.
⇒ Map Position: I.6.15 Pompeii. Casa dei Ceii / Casa della Caccia / House of L. Ceius Secundus and Fabia Prima / The House of Fabia and Tyrannus
House of the Dioscuri
The House of the Dioscuri is one of the most splendid residences from the late period of Pompeii, distinguished by its complex architecture and rich decoration. It features two rooms connected by a peristyle, a deep pool for water games, and an elegant salon with columns and marble walls. The paintings, created by the same workshop as those in the Casa dei Vettii, include squares depicting the Dioscuri (Castor and Pollux) and are displayed in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, with their copies recently returned to the site.
⇒ Map Position: VI.9.6 Pompeii. Casa dei Dioscuri / House of Castor & Pollux
Temple of Vespasian
The Temple of the Genius of Augustus (Vespasian) was built at the request of Mami, mentioned in an inscription as the priestess of Ceres and the Genius of Augustus. The building dates back to the Augustan period (the first decade of the 1st century AD). Also, it had an identical architectural design to the adjacent Portico of the Concord of Augustus, as confirmed by the marble decorations on the facade and the altar. The temple included a small courtyard, an altar, and a small temple with four columns on a high base, accessible from both sides.
There is a beautiful marble decoration with plant motifs filled with rich fauna, now visible at the entrance to the Portico of the Concord of Eumachia, probably belonging to the entrance to the temple. The frieze was made based on a pattern from the Ara Pacis in Rome.
⇒ Map Position: VII.9.2 Pompeii. Temple of Vespasian / Temple of the Genius of Augustus / Temple of Mercury
House of Menander
The House of Menander in Pompeii is one of the most well-known and richly decorated houses from the Roman period. Its name comes from frescoes depicting scenes from the life and works of the Greek playwright Menander. The house consists of numerous rooms decorated in various styles, ranging from luxurious salons to private apartments. The wall paintings decorating the interiors reflect the high level of craftsmanship and artistry of the era, making the House of Menander a unique place on the archaeological map of Pompeii.
⇒ Map Position: I.10.4 Pompeii. Casa del Menandro / House of Menander / House of the Silver Treasure
Tower XI (Torre di Mercurio)
Tower XI, also known as Torre di Mercurio, is in the northern part of Pompeii and was part of the city’s defensive walls. It served guard and defence functions. The name comes from a nearby temple to Mercury. The tower is well-preserved, showcasing Roman defensive techniques.
It is worth visiting this site as the tower’s terrace offers the best view of Pompeii.
⇒ Map Position: T11 Pompeii. Tower XI. Torre di Mercurio
Tannery and “Memento Mori” Mosaic
Tannery
The tannery in Pompeii, located in the north-western part of the city in Regio I, Insula 5, was a crucial element of the city’s economy where animal hides were processed into various products such as clothing and footwear. This facility included water tanks, tanning vats, and drying areas.
“Memento Mori” Mosaic
The tannery is also home to the famous “Memento Mori” mosaic. It presents a skull with ears resting on butterfly wings (symbolizing the soul) and a wheel (symbolizing Fortuna), alluding to the fleeting nature of life and death’s equalizing effect on social differences. The plumb line above the skull indicates a balance between poverty (represented by a staff and cloak) and wealth (represented by a sceptre and purple cloth), emphasizing that regardless of one’s status, death is inevitable.
The phrase “Memento mori” is believed to have originated from ancient Rome, where Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius used the concept to focus on the present and inner virtue.
This artwork helps us understand Roman philosophy on life and death, highlighting their acceptance of mortality as an integral part of their culture and daily life. The original mosaic is housed in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
In contemporary times, the “Memento Mori” mosaic design appeared on the cover of Pink Floyd’s 1971 album “Live at Pompeii,” played and recorded in the Pompeii Amphitheatre.
⇒ Map Position: I.5.2 Pompeii. Officina coriariorum of M. Vesonius Primus. Tannery.
Pompeii – What to Focus on During Your Visit
Frescos and Mosaics
Many homes and villas in Pompeii are adorned with beautiful frescos and mosaics that have survived. Besides my favourite mosaic “Memento Mori“, which I wrote about earlier, I found several other amazing mosaics in Pompeii.
House of the Tragic Poet
This house has a traditional atrium layout. It is famous for its “CAVE CANEM” mosaic (“Beware of the Dog”) near the main entrance, which is now protected by glass. Access is via a side entrance. You can locate the House of the Tragic Poet on the Pompeii map at:
⇒ Map Position: VI.8.5 Pompeii. Casa del Poeta Tragico / House of the Tragic Poet
Gymnasium of the Iuvenes
This gymnasium features a stunning floor mosaic depicting a fight between two bare-handed athletes (wrestlers). The walls are adorned with frescos of athletes, wrestlers, and weightlifters. There is also a judge (also known as Ludi Magister), who carries a ribbon for the winner. This large space was part of a men’s bath complex dating back to the 1st century AD.
⇒ Map Position: VIII.6 Pompeii. Gymnasium of the Iuvenes
House of the Wild Boar I and House of the Wild Boar II
As you stroll through Pompeii, check out the houses with unique mosaics of a wild boar being attacked by dogs at their entrances. This popular motif was meant to ward off evil spirits. Both houses can be found in the VIII district.
You can find these locations on the map at:
⇒ VIII.3.8 Pompeii. House of the Wild Boar / Casa del Cinghiale I.
⇒ VIII.2.26 Pompeii. Casa del Cinghiale II / House of Vesbinus.
House of the Geometric Mosaics
One of the largest homes in Pompeii, covering over 3000 square meters with more than 60 rooms. It spans two levels with terraces that use the natural slope of the land, offering panoramic views of the Sarno Valley. The interiors are richly decorated with black-and-white floor mosaics in labyrinth and checkerboard patterns, giving the place a unique character.
⇒ Map Position: VIII.2.16 Pompeii. Casa dei Mosaici Geometrici, or House of the Geometric Mosaics
Pompeii – A Window into the Past
Pompeii offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans, impressing visitors with its surprisingly modern urban layout and advanced infrastructure.
Interesting Street Layout
The city was planned with a regular street grid, showing thoughtful urban design. Main roads intersected at right angles, creating rectangular blocks. Streets were paved and had high curbs to protect pedestrians from dirt and rainwater. Notably, stepping stones on the streets allowed for dry crossings during rain.
Aqueducts and Sewer System
Pompeii boasted an advanced water and sewage system. Aqueducts delivered water to public fountains, baths, and wealthier homes. Private houses had cisterns called impluvium to collect rainwater. The sewer system, running along the streets, effectively removed waste from the city, contributing to relatively high hygiene standards.
Organization of Daily Life
Pompeii was a well-organized city with many conveniences for its residents. Main streets had numerous shops, craft workshops, bakeries, taverns, and inns. Bakeries provided fresh bread, while taverns were meeting places for meals and wine. Public baths were available for hygiene, socializing, and relaxation.
Public Buildings
Pompeii also had various public buildings, such as a theatre, amphitheatre, forums, and temples. The Forum, the heart of social and political life, was surrounded by a basilica, curia, and temples. The amphitheatre, with gladiator barracks, attracted crowds for spectacular battles, while theatres offered dramatic and musical performances.
Body Casts of Inhabitants
One of the most poignant aspects of Pompeii is the body casts of the residents who perished during the eruption. Using a special plaster technique, archaeologists created casts of the bodies, preserving the dramatic poses of people in their final moments. These casts can be seen in various parts of the city. They are adding a deeper layer to the visit, and helping to understand the scale of the tragedy that befell Pompeii.
Pompeii – Top Attractions Movie
I also invite you to watch my film from my visit to Pompeii.
Watch my “Pompeii – Top Attractions” movie on YouTube
Pompeii – Map and App
To better understand the history and significance of various sites, consider using a guide or renting an audio guide. You can also explore Pompeii using an app or map provided with your entrance ticket.
- City Map. Download the PDF map from org_A Guide to the Pompeii Excavations
- Exploration App. The app for touring Pompeii is called MyPompeiiApp. Learn more at org_myPompeii the application.
Practical Information
- Pompeii is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Entrance tickets
- Entrance tickets. Start at 18 euros (price as of 2024).
- Download the App. The Pompeii tour app is available here – MyPompeii
- More Info: Visit the official website at pompeiisites.org
- Buy Tickets Online. Available at visitpompeiivesuvius.co
How to Get to Pompeii
- Train from Naples. You can start your journey by train from Napoli Porta Nolana or Napoli Garibaldi stations using the Circumvesuviana train. During peak season, I recommend starting from Porta Nolana station. There may be no more free seats on the train route.
- Journey Duration. The train takes about 30 minutes and around 20 stops along the way. Not all trains stop at every station. Get off at Pompei Scavi (Villa Misteri). After exiting the station, turn right. You will find ticket counters (on the first floor) and the Porta Marina Gate, the entrance to Pompeii.
- Train Schedule Information. More details on train schedules can be found at visitpompeiivesuvius.com_ train-schedule
- Ticket Purchase. Buy tickets at the station counters (Porta Nolana or Napoli Garibaldi). A one-way ticket costs 2.6 euros (price as of 2024).
- Alternative Option. If the train is crowded, consider taking a tourist bus – Round-Trip Shuttle Bus to Pompeii*
Touring Pompeii with a Guide
If you prefer to explore Pompeii with an organized group, here are a few options:
- Various Ticket and Tour Options. Check out different ticket and tour options for Pompeii at Pompeii Ticket and Tour options*
- One-Day Tour to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. Experience a one-day tour that includes both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. Find more details at Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius One-Day Tour from Naples or Sorrento*
- Guided Tour with Hotel Pickup in Naples. Join a guided group tour of Pompeii with pickup from your hotel in Naples. More information is available at Pompeii Tour from Naples*
ITALY – My Other Posts
I also encourage you to read my other posts about Italy.
- Italy photos
- Lemon Sorrento
- Naples and Pompeii – tailor-made travel plan
- Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast – tailor-made travel plan
- The island of Ischia 1-day outside Naples
- Verona – in the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet
*links to the offer from Klook are affiliate