Pompeii at the Carnegie Science Center (CSC) is an interactive, educational experience focusing on the history of the ancient city of Pompeii as well as the archaeological excavation of this long-buried Roman community. This exhibit provides visitors with the opportunity to study the remains that were buried under layers of ash during the 79 AD eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. In addition to the detailed archaeological displays, live demonstrations, interactive videos, and other engaging content, information regarding the multi-month excavation process is highlighted.
The Pompeii Exhibit at CSC has been open since March 2014, and has since become a beloved destination for families, school trips, and cultural excursions. This interactive, educational experience takes visitors on an in depth journey through ancient Pompeii, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the wonders of the city. Both children and adults can explore rooms covered in ancient artifacts, watch interactive videos on the destruction of the city, and even explore the ancient forum to learn about the Roman merchants and citizens who once occupied the space.
The exhibit also features a meticulous recreated version of the Garden of the Fugitives, where 16 victims of the 79 A.D. eruption were buried in the ash and preserved for centuries. Today, these preserved bodies provide a fascinating look into the lives of ancient Romans and the destruction brought on by the Vesuvius eruption. Hearing lectures from archaeologists or reading texts, visitors can learn how people were able to escape the city and why the rest were unable to, as well as why this particular garden was chosen as a final resting place.
The exhibit also examines the long and laborious excavation process that brought the city to light. Visitors learn the timeless tale of Pompeii, including the various theories behind the city’s destruction, archaeological findings and the various technologies used to uncover its secrets. The Pompeii Revealed: Stories from the Lost City audio tour offers behind the scenes insights from curators and experts.
In addition to the historical, educational, and archaeological elements of the exhibit, there is also an interactive space encouraging creativity and amusement. Guests are invited to complete an interactive excavation – using antique tools to access precious artifacts – and discover the secrets of the city’s past. After, visitors can learn how to make their own mosaics, recreate their own Garden of the Fugitives, and even explore a 3-D model of the city in all its glory.
The Pompeii Exhibit at CSC has established itself as a powerful educational experience. Through interactive exhibits, detailed archaeological displays, and awe-inspiring videos, visitors can investigate and interact with the history of the ancient city of Pompeii. It is clear that the exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center provides a truly remarkable, memorable and educational experience for both visitors and history buffs alike.
Archaeological Process
When it comes to the archaeological process, the Pompeii Exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center provides an excellent opportunity to learn about and appreciate the value of preserving the ancient past. As the city of Pompeii lay dormant beneath the layers of ash and debris, it was up to the archaeologists to determine the best method of uncovering and excavating the hidden city. There were three main techniques used in the excavation of Pompeii: stratigraphic methods, area excursions, and photogrammetry.
The stratigraphic method focuses on observing and examining each layer of soil or ash, which can provide evidence of events that occurred in the past.This technique can be used to determine the sequence of events and help to unravel some of the mysteries of Pompeii. On the other hand, area excursions involve the use of several ground penetrating radars (GPR) to identify the objects below the surface of the ground. This technique can be used to detect walls, utilities, and even to identify the position of possible human remains. Last but not least, photogrammetry is a process that utilizes drones, helicopters and other unmanned aerial vehicles to capture aerial images of the city and its remains. These images can be used to generate 3D models, which allow archaeologists to get a better understanding of the size and shape of the remains that are spread throughout the city.
The use of modern technology, such as GPR and photogrammetry, really shows the dedication of archaeologists to uncovering the secrets of Pompeii and working to ensure that the city remains preserved for future generations to learn from. Even though the city was buried in the ash and debris of a volcanic eruption, we are still able to uncover its secrets and appreciate the stories behind its ruins.
Pompeii Excavation Team
Behind every great archaeological discovery lies a team of dedicated experts and researchers, and the excavation at Pompeii is no exception. The team at CSC’s Pompeii Exhibit is composed of world-renowned researchers and archaeologists, who have each dedicated their lives to uncovering the secrets of the city. From the moment the team first arrived in the city to begin the excavations, they have sought out every opportunity to study and analyze the artifacts, remains, and structures of the city, to better understand its history and the events that led to the eruption of 79AD.
Leading the team is Professor Jean-Claude Pozza, an Italian archaeologist who has studied and explored the city of Pompeii for over twenty years. He also serves as the director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park and is credited with numerous archaeological missions and publications. The Pompeii team also includes Dr. Raffaele Amoroso, the lead conservator at the park; Dr. Aurora Ignazzi, an archaeologist and the resident expert in ancient Roman technologies; and Dr. Martina Barbarisi, a specialist in Roman coins and the economy of Roman cities. All five team members are highly skilled and trained professionals, and their dedication to further exploring and uncovering the secrets of Pompeii is admirable.
Popular Attraction
Since it first opened its doors in 2014, the Pompeii Exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center has grown in popularity and has become a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. With its interactive displays, detailed exhibits and live demonstrations, the exhibit has the ability to fascinate and educate both adults and children. According to the Pittsburgh Business Times, the exhibit’s popularity has surged since its 2014 debut, with attendance growing from 20,000 visitors in 2014 to over 40,000 visitors in 2017. Although the majority of visitors to the exhibition are from the local Pittsburgh area, the exhibit has attracted people from around the world, with visitors from over 30 different countries.
These visitors come to the exhibit for many different reasons. For some, it is to learn more about the history of the ancient city, for others, it is to appreciate the archaeological mystery and marvel of discovering and restoring the city from the depths of its ash-covered remains. But for most, it is to simply explore the city and gain a better understanding of the people, technologies and customs of those who once lived there.
For the people of Pittsburgh and beyond, the Pompeii Exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in history and uncover the mysteries of Pompeii. In addition to the educational value, the exhibition also provides an entertaining and stimulating experience sure to leave any visitor feeling informed, inspired and satisfied.
Location & Cost
The Pompeii Exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center is located on the North Side of Pittsburgh, in the Oakland section of the city. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm, seven days a week and offers free admission to members of the science center. For those who choose not to become members, the admission cost is $19 for adults and $17 for children ages 3-12. Visitors can also purchase a combined ticket, which includes admission to all exhibitions, including the Pompeii exhibit, for only $25.
The Carnegie Science Center is easily accessible via public transportation, and parking is only $8 for the day. For those looking for a unique cultural experience, the Pompeii Exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center is a must-see. The interactive exhibit provides visitors with a unique and educational experience, sure to leave them with an appreciation for ancient history and a better understanding of the 79AD eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.
Interaction & Immersion
An important aspect of the Carnegie Science Center’s Pompeii Exhibit is the level of interaction and immersion it provides. The exhibit incorporates a variety of interactive elements that allow visitors to get a feel for the antiquity of the city and its inhabitants. One of the highlights of the exhibit is a guided audio tour, which takes visitors on a detailed journey through the city of Pompeii. The audio tour includes interviews with experts, allowing visitors to gain invaluable insight into the history and culture of the civilization that once lived in the city.
In addition, the Pompeii Exhibit also features three separate interactive spaces, where visitors can explore and embody the life of the ancient Romans. At the “Secrets of the Sand” space, guests can complete their own interactive excavation and discover the secrets of the city’s past. At the “Garden of the Fugitives” space, visitors can recreate their own version of the ancient garden and explore its hidden treasures. Lastly, at the “3D Model” room, guests can explore a 3D model of the city and its surroundings to gain a better understanding of the area.
Ultimately, the Pompeii Exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center provides a truly remarkable and high-quality interactive experience. The variety of interactive elements and activities provides visitors with an in-depth look into the history of the city, and offers a unique opportunity to explore and gain a better understanding of the civilization of ancient Rome.
