Visiting the Ancient City of Pompeii, Italy
Old Pompeii – Italy's Premier Archaeological and Tourist Attraction
May 12, 2009
The ancient city of Pompeii in Italy is discussed in many history books and is of great fascination to both the serious archaeologist and curious tourist; miraculously preserved under the ancient ash and lava from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, old Pompeii holds many secrets of life in ancient Roman times. Today, many millions of tourists make the pilgrimage to view the archaeological ruins of the city.
How to Reach Ancient Pompeii
Ancient Pompeii stands separate to the modern town of Pompeii and is easily reached from Naples and Sorrento on a day trip; perhaps the best way to reach the old town of Pompeii is by train. The train stops directly at the Pompeii – Scavi- Villa dei Misteri train station from both Sorrento (approximately 30 – 40 minutes) and Naples (approximately 45 minutes).
The train station is situated right in front of the main entrance to the archaeological ruins of Pompeii at the Porta Marina entrance; many tourist restaurants and souvenir stands line the road to the entrance. Ancient Pompeii is also reachable by car from the A3 and many tour buses stop directly outside of the ruins.
Visiting the Archaeological Ruins of Pompeii
The size of ancient Pompeii is often underestimated by visitors and it is more or less impossible to see the whole area in one day; the old city of Pompeii originally covered 66 hectares, although only about two thirds of this area have been excavated to date. It is advisable to plan your visit beforehand, and choose the sights to visit, so that time spent at Pompeii can be used to the full advantage.
In summer, it is wise to bring sunscreen, water, hat and plenty of patience as the sun is strong and the crowds are large; a good pair of walking shoes are also recommended, as many areas of the site are a long way apart. It is also worth noting that public restroom facilities are available at the main entrances but are limited elsewhere.
Things to See at Ancient Pompeii
There are many archaeological ruins and remains of great interest at ancient Pompeii but some of the more well known are:
- Tempio di Apollo (Apollo's Temple) – one of the oldest and most important religious buildings, situated opposite the basilica; both buildings date from 2nd century BC.
- Teatro Grande – a 2nd century BC 5,000 seat theater; other theaters included the Teatro Piccolo, an indoor theater.
- Casa del Fauno (House of the Faun) – one of Pompeii's largest private homes where many mosaics have been found and are preserved today in the Museo Archeologico Nazionale in Naples.
- Casa del Poeta Tragico (House of the Tragic Poet) – with the infamous cave canem inscription ('beware of the dog').
There are also Roman forum baths, remains of many temples, houses, gardens, perfume shops, brothels and grocery stores and a museum within the archaeological site of Pompeii; it is possible to see how the people of Pompeii lived, cooked, grew plants and made perfume on a daily basis. Many pots, vases, mosaics, furniture and even bodies have been preserved from the AD 79 eruption.
Need-to-Know Information for Pompeii
The following information may be useful to visitors of Pompeii:
- main entrances to the archaeological ruins of Pompeii are at Porta Marina and Piazza Anfiteatro
- hours of operation are April to October 8.30 am – 7.30 pm (last entry 6pm); November to March 8.30 am – 5 pm (last entry 3.30 pm). Check for any local changes
- audio guides are available for a small fee at the main entrances; alternatively, a good guidebook is recommended.
- Ancient Pompeii can be reached by train, bus or car from Naples, Sorrento and Salerno; it is even possible to take a bus from Rome to visit Pompeii but the journey is at least three hours each way.
- Accommodation is limited in the new town of Pompeii; staying in Sorrento or Naples is probably preferable.
Electa Napoli 2002 Pompeii: Guide to the Site Italy
Giordano, Carlo, Casale, Angelandrea, Profumi, Ungenti e Acconciature in Pompeii Antica (Perfumes, Ungents and Hairstyles in Pompeii) Roma, Italia: Bardi Editore
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