Pompeii, Italy is a beautiful ancient city with much to offer for visitors who want to explore its historical sights. The city of Pompeii, originally founded in the 8th century BC, was tragically covered in ash and lava when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Although the city is now a “frozen” scene of the past, it offers up a unique and extraordinary opportunity for visitors who wish to experience life long ago, as it remains to this day exactly as it was over 2000 years ago.
The Ruins of Pompeii are some of the most-visited in the world with over 2.5 million visitors annually. Pompeii, along with Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata, are now globally renowned archeological sites known for their extremely well-preserved structures and artifacts, including art, pottery, frescoes, jewellery, coins and mosaics. Circular stones divide and border the streets of Pompeii, indicating the separate districts and acting as stanchions for the two storeyed houses.
Visitors to Pompeii can visit the grand ancient landmarks such as the Basilica, the Forum and the Macellum, known for its vivid and sophisticated frescoes and sculptures. The Amphitheatre is another notable landmark, a large open-air space containing more than 100 rows of seats. Explorers can also walk through the ancient streets such as Vicolo Del Pilastro, the Fountain of Apollo and the Gate of Herculaneum. These streets are lined with remains of ancient shops and homes, imparting visitors a vivid glimpse into the lives of ancient Pompeians.
After snaking through the amazing streets of Pompeii, visitors can see a variety of artifacts in its Ancient House of Art and Caves. Here, visitors hearteningly can view exceptional archeological pieces, such as the “Lampadario” (Chandelier) considered the symbol of Pompeii due to its prestige, or the intricate mosaics crafted with stones and glass.
The House of Hercules is also worth the visit. It is famed for the well-preserved fresco on its front entrance depicting Hercules, the half-God and Slaying of the Hydra. To complement the main attractions, Pompeii also houses a large number of museums. These include the Vesuvius National Park Museum, a perfect spot for those who appreciate the beauty of nature, the Archeological Museum and the Ncc – Carmignani Museum of Ancient Characters.
For the active traveller, many of the streets in Pompeii can be explored by cycling. Again, another opportunity to observe the city in new and more visceral detail. Alternatively, horse riding is also a popular option for the more adventurous traveller, as one is able to cover a greater distance in a shorter period of time.
Pompeii, Italy is surely an adventure like no other and its sheer magnitude of history is hard to fathom given its age and preservation. From the ancient ruins to the artifacts and beyond, it is an experience not to be missed.
Stay and Relax
Pompeii is an ideal destination for an extended stay. From the luxury of a city park to the winding streets, visitors have options available to them where they can enjoy the sights in a slow pace. One of the top spots for relaxation is Pompeii’s lush Villa dei Misteri, a garden estate with remains of a gorgeous ancient home, namely two enormous patios. Here, visitors can spend peaceful moments under the shade of old thuja trees and enjoy the beauty of its colored marble fountains.
Other spots to stay and relax in Pompeii include the Small Theatre, an attractive meeting venue inside the city walls, known for its special fountain in the form of a sloping terrace, and the Neronian Villa, a gorgeous pavilion with a remarkable garden rich of decorations.
Taste the Cuisine
Part of enjoying a trip to Pompeii would not be complete without a taste of the local cuisine. This Italian city is known for its gastronome habits, with many traditional recipes dating back to Ancient Roman times. Local specialties include calf brain, eggplant parmesan, stuffed artichokes, and, of course, pizza! The city is home to many restaurants and pubs equipped to serve delicious dishes as visitors explore the city and its history.
Traditional recipes, some cooked according to ancient techniques and recipes that were used in Ancient Rome are also found in Pompeii today. People who love typical Italian food such as pasta carbonara, spaghetti with mussels or pizza baked in a wood-burning oven will be delighted. Eating out in Pompeii with the view of the lively streets and the Vesuvius in the background adds an interesting experience to the holiday.
In addition to the restaurants and pubs, there is also the possibility of taking a cooking class. This is hands-on cooking using the same classic recipes used by Ancient Romans including pasta, wine and desert. These classes are very popular and now recommended by travel guides, as a way to learn about Pompeii and Italian culture along with Italian cooking.
Visit the Beaches
In addition to its rich history, Pompeii is also close to renowned beaches where visitors can relax after exploring the archeological sites. These beaches not only offer tranquillity but plenty of beauty and fun as well. Tourists who want something a little more active should head over to Bagnoli beach. This area has a multitude of activities such as windsurfing, sailing, frizbee and beach tennis that can be enjoyed by anyone from the novice to the advanced.
Plenty of beaches in the area also offer lounge chairs, umbrellas and little restaurants and shops where visitors can take a timeout and rejuvenate in the sun or stock up on snacks and items for the beach. The long promenade lined with wild palm trees makes for a stunning walk and vacationers have the option of wander it until they grow tired and retire back to the beach.
For even more of a thrill, beachgoers can look into visiting one of the windsurfing schools or try their hand at cliff jumping, a favorite pastime of those who want to reach a little higher and make their stay a little more memorable.
Go Shopping
Apart from exploring ancient ruins and chilling on the beach, Pompeii also offers plenty of wiggle room for the wanderer who likes to shop. This vibrant Italian city is home to a wealth of delightful boutiques that line the cobblestone streets. As one strolls down the bustling streets of the city, visitors will come across a number of shops selling products from jewelry, clothes, to souvenirs.
For the keen antique aficionado, the city of Pompeii is teeming with shops filled with a range of exceptional antiques such as furniture, pictures, plates and much more. To get an overview of the area’s diverse offerings, visitors can pay a visit to the city center and mingle with locals while doing some shopping. Afterward, tourists can convene at the lively bars or sip coffee at one of the cafes while watching the world go by.
No trip to this magnificent city will be complete without a visit to the lively marketplaces and stores. Both small shops as well as large stores, such as the Grand Hotel Pompeii, offer a great shopping experience for tourists on their holiday.
Visit the Modern World
Pompeii is home to many modern-day attractions, from charming cafes and bars to churches, cinemas, theatre and even shopping malls. Even in a town filled with centuries-old history, modern technologies, culture, and attractions can be found. Torre Annunziata hosts an Italian International Film Festival annually, which includes independent, foreign and Italian movies. Additionally, the town offers a variety of dancing halls, festivals and carnivals to celebrate the vibrant lifestyle this historic city offers.
The Grand Hotel Pompeii is the perfect example of the exquisite mix of old and new in Pompeii. The hotel was built to contain the most modern comforts with all the luxuries of a hotel combined with the charm of a vintage building, offering the perfect balance between the alluring ancient ruins and modern world.
Finally, there is a wealth of hidden restaurants and bars, tucked away alleys and squares, where tourists can taste some of the delicious local dishes the town has to offer. Locals and tourists alike flock to dine at popular restaurants such as La Pergola, Add’u Mimi and Ristorante Varano, each of which offer exquisite cuisine, friendly service and a captivating atmosphere.
