Pompeii was once a bustling port city on the coast of the Bay of Naples in southern Italy. It was destroyed by ash, pumice and rock in the famous eruption of Mt.Vesuvius in 79AD, and its ruins have since been a popular attraction for tourists from all over the world. But is Escape from Pompeii still open today?
The answer is yes. The ruins of Pompeii have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are open to visitors while still undergoing extensive excavation. Although some parts of the ruins are in a very precarious state, access to most of the archeological sites is still possible. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, including houses, baths, workshops, theaters, and even an amphitheater.
Aside from the obvious draw of its ancient ruins and the chance to walk through history, the site is also known for its beautiful views of Mt.Vesuvius, the Bay of Naples and the Sorrento Peninsula. Tourists can also enjoy the local cuisine, which largely reflects traditional Italian cuisine.
Due to its popularity as a tourist destination and the emphasis on preserving its history and artifacts, there are some guidelines to follow when visiting Escape from Pompeii. The site is open daily from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, and visitors must arrive on site prior to their visit. Additionally, entrance fees and guided tours are available. For visitors who are more interested in the history, there are guided tours with archeologists and researchers that go into more detail and explain the importance of the site.
It is important to note that independent tours are not allowed, as the artifacts are fragile and can easily be damaged by unknowing visitors. Visitors are also asked to stay on the paths and not climb on the excavated remains, as these are part of an ongoing archaeological research project. Additionally, photography is not allowed in the archaeological site.
Despite having been buried by ash for two thousand years, the ruins of Pompeii remain relatively intact and are available for visitors to explore. Visiting the ruins gives insight into the city’s ancient history and allows visitors to get a glimpse of what life was like in the vibrant port city before its sudden destruction.
Location
Escape from Pompeii is located in the southern Italian region of Campania in the province of Naples. It is situated on the slopes of Mt.Vesuvius, approximately 10 kilometers from the city of Naples and 15 kilometers from the popular resort town of Sorrento.
The region is known for its mild climate and natural landscape, and has long been one of Italy’s favorite tourist destinations. The area is home to several ancient sites, including the ruins of Pompeii, as well as other historically-significant landmarks such as the temples of Paestum and Herculaneum.
Historical Significance
Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, with evidence of the city’s destruction and eventual burial in ash in 79 AD still visible today. It was believed to have been a large and prosperous trading city prior to its destruction, with a population of around 20,000. The historical significance of the site has led to it being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as an international treasure.
The ruins of Pompeii have been well-preserved thanks to the ash that buried it, which acted as a form of natural mummification that protected the city’s artifacts from the elements. The archaeological site has been carefully excavated and studied since its initial discovery in 1748, making it one of the most important sites in the world for exploring ancient civilizations.
Modern Excavations
The ruins of Pompeii still undergo extensive excavation work, with new discoveries made on a regular basis. In fact, in 2019 an entire street in the city was discovered by archaeologists and historians, offering new insights into the layout and design of the city prior to its destruction.
It is believed that much of the city remains undiscovered, with archaeologists estimating that around two thirds of the city still lies covered in ash and pumice. Excavations are ongoing, and experts predict that new aspects and insights into the city’s past will be revealed in the coming years.
Visiting Tips
When traveling to the site, it is important to be aware that the ruins are fragile, and so visitors are urged to stay on designated paths and not to touch or disturb any of the artifacts. Additionally, tattoos, smoking, and littering are strictly forbidden, and visitors are urged to comply with these regulations in order to preserve the ancient site.
Photography is not permitted in most areas of the archaeological site, so be sure to inquire before taking any pictures. The best time to visit is in the early morning, when the crowds are less and the atmospheric conditions are more favourable to revel in the majestic beauty of one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological sites.
Facilities
The site offers a range of facilities for visitors, including restrooms, a café, a souvenir shop, a museum, and a car park. Additionally, visitors can rent bicycles and take guided tours with an archeologist. The site also has a specialized team on hand to answer any queries visitors may have.
There is also an education center, which includes an interactive exhibit that teaches visitors about the city’s history and its destruction. The exhibition is intended to spark curiosity and engage visitors in the site’s historical significance.
Conclusion
Escape from Pompeii is one of the world’s best-preserved and most important archaeological sites. Thanks to its UNESCO World Heritage status, visitors are able to explore and experience the site for themselves. From its stunning views to its amazing artifacts, Escape from Pompeii is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.
