Facts and Figures
In 79 AD, an estimated 10,000 people lived in the city of Pompeii. After the eruption on August 24, 79 AD, about 2000 people are estimated to have died. The entire city was buried under 10 feet of volcanic ash. This ash contained microscopic fragments of quartz that helped preserve a number of Pompeii’s buildings and artifacts. Some of them were so well preserved that they were still recognizable after nearly two thousand years.
Buildings
After the eruption, the city of Pompeii was buried under an ash layer more than 10 feet deep. This layer helped to preserve most of the city’s buildings, although many of them had collapsed due to the sheer force of the eruption. Of the buildings that did survive, many retained their original outlines and could still be identified. What’s more, many of the buildings were covered in intricate mosaics and murals, depicting everything from thoughts on love to scenes from mythology.
People
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius killed an estimated 2,000 people in Pompeii. After the eruption, the eerie casts of these unsuspecting citizens were discovered in some of the ash layers of their homes. Through the casts, we can learn more about their lifestyles, hobbies, and even their status within the city itself.
Artefacts
The ash layers of Pompeii helped to preserve a number of its artifacts. Some of them retained their original shapes, while others had been reshaped by the force of the eruption. Among the items that have been preserved are jewelry, pottery, tools, furniture, coins, and even ships. Many of these items are remarkably well-preserved and still show evidence of the skill and craftsmanship of their creators.
Preservation
The preservation of Pompeii was both fortunate and unfortunate. Thanks to the ash layers, much of the city’s culture was able to be studied and the bodies of its citizens were able to be remembered. However, many of the artifacts found at the site have been taken away from the city, leaving only their casts behind.
Skills of the Pompeians
The people of Pompeii were skilled in a number of areas. A number of artifacts found around the city show off their expertise in metallurgy, pottery, jewelry-making, and carpentry. In fact, some artifacts found at the site include a large wooden boat, a jewelry workshop, and a number of bronze sculptures.
Archaeological Digs
Since the initial discovery of Pompeii, numerous archaeological digs have been conducted to help uncover its secrets. Through these digs, we have been able to learn more about the lifestyle of its citizens as well as the architecture and history of the city. The archaeology of Pompeii has shed light on a number of Etruscan and Roman artifacts as well.
Modern Relevance
The story of Pompeii is still relevant today. The devastation of the city has long been remembered as a warning against the power of nature. As such, its story has been used in multiple films, books, and even video games. These depictions of Pompeii help to keep its memory alive.
Recent Developments
As of 2020, a number of new projects have been launched to help the city of Pompeii. Projects like the Great Pompeii Project work to protect and preserve the site from further damage, as well as make it more accessible to visitors. Additionally, the Pompei Heritage Park was created to help protect the site from unauthorized excavation and looting.
The city of Pompeii is an incredible testament to history. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius left the city’s buildings and artifacts incredibly well-preserved and has enabled us to preserve the memories of its citizens. We owe a great deal of gratitude to the people of Pompeii, and their remarkable story will be remembered for generations to come.
