Pompeii is one of the Ancient Rome cities that was destroyed with an unfortunate disaster. It was plundered with the eruption of Vesuvius Volcano in 79 BC. This unfortunate event also led to many tales and legends about the city. Today, the remaining parts of the city are available for a visit. It is located about 30 kilometers away from Napoli, Italy. Archeologists believe that the first establishment in the area dates back to 5000 BC. Below, you can find detailed information about this ancient city and one of the most popular tales about it.
What Makes Pompeii Important?
This Ancient Rome city used to be one of the most beautiful cities in that period with plenty of green areas. It is one of the cities, where you can observe the lifestyle of different classes. Nobles and traders used to enjoy their life at maximum while regular citizens and slaves were living in poverty. The community puts their desires and pleasure to the fore in every situation. Although living in Pompeii was a great chance for many people at that time, many unfortunate events happened in the city from time to time.
One of the most popular events is the eruption of the Vesuvius Volcano. City life would never be the same after this natural disaster. The eruption was so intense that the city was buried under ashes for long years with all the assets. All the beauties of the city including luxurious villas were disappeared in less than a day. However, this was not the only incident that strikes the city. About 15 years before the eruption, a major earthquake hit the city and caused great damage. More and more earthquakes took place until the eruption. Human remains found in the ancient city prove that no one could escape the eruption and they were buried alive.
Interesting Facts about Pompeii
In this section, we have listed some lesser known and interesting facts about Pompeii. You’ll be surprised to learn about some of these, because Pompeii is not just an interesting archaeological site because of people who were casted by a volcanic eruption. Here are the most interesting facts about Pompeii:
- Ancient Fast Food: Pompeii had a thriving fast food culture. Numerous thermopolia, ancient Roman street food stands, have been discovered in the city. These establishments served hot food and drinks to the busy citizens of Pompeii.
- Amphitheater Graffiti: The amphitheater in Pompeii is not only known for its spectacles but also for its graffiti. The walls of the amphitheater are covered in inscriptions that served as political messages, advertisements, and even declarations of love.
- Lupanar: Pompeii had a brothel known as the Lupanar, which contained several small rooms with stone beds. The walls of these rooms were adorned with explicit frescoes depicting various sexual positions, serving as a sort of ancient menu.
- Ancient Plumbing: Pompeii had a remarkable plumbing system for its time. The city had an intricate network of aqueducts, fountains, and public baths that supplied clean water to its residents.
- Amphitheater Underground: Beneath the arena floor of the Pompeii amphitheater, a complex system of tunnels and chambers was discovered. These underground passageways were used to store equipment, animals, and gladiators before they entered the arena.
- Suburban Baths: In addition to the public baths, Pompeii also had private bathhouses in many homes. These smaller, more intimate bathhouses were found in the courtyards of wealthy houses and were used by the residents and their guests.
- Garden Frescoes: Pompeii was known for its beautiful frescoes, and one unique style depicted garden scenes. These frescoes created the illusion of lush gardens on the walls, often featuring plants, flowers, birds, and architectural elements.
- Election Graffiti: During the political campaigns in Pompeii, candidates would hire professional writers to inscribe messages and slogans on walls to promote themselves. These election graffiti provided insights into the political climate and strategies of the time.
- Ancient “Takeout”: Pompeii had a system of small windows called “tabernae” that opened onto the street. These served as shops or takeout counters, where merchants sold food, drinks, and various goods without customers needing to enter the premises.
- Palaestra: Pompeii had a palaestra, a large sports complex, where residents could engage in various physical activities such as wrestling, boxing, and ball games. It was a place for exercise, socializing, and competitions.
Tales About Pompeii
Due to the eruption, all residents turned into stone statues, and this led to many tales about the destiny of the city. Although the Pompeii disaster was because of a natural phenomenon, the religious communities used to think otherwise in those times. Gambling, prostitution, fights, and rape were very common in this city. As a result, they claimed that God decided to intervene in this situation and let everyone pay the price of their sins. They believed that it was the proof of what God can do for sinners and it will be a great example for people to think twice before they sin.
Archeological Site
Walking through the ancient streets of Pompeii, visitors are transported back in time. From the remarkably preserved villas, such as the House of the Faun and the House of the Vettii, to the awe-inspiring amphitheater and the haunting casts of the volcano’s victims, the city offers an unparalleled glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants.
Vibrant Frescoes and Mosaics
One of the most captivating aspects of Pompeii’s artistic heritage is its exquisite frescoes and mosaics. These vibrant and intricately detailed works of art adorn the walls and floors of villas, providing a glimpse into the artistic prowess of ancient Roman craftsmen. The House of the Tragic Poet and the Villa of the Mysteries are particularly renowned for their stunning frescoes that have stood the test of time.
