Pompeii - Ancient City at the Foot of Mount Vesuvius

Pompeii is an ancient Roman city inland from Naples. Pompeii was buried under ash and rock when Mount Vesuvius, a nearby volcano, erupted on August 24, 79 AD. Pompeii seems much like it did in the 1st century because the volcanic ash hermetically sealed the city and its 2,000 residents, some of which are captured in horrific death.

Pompeii lay buried until the 16th century, excavation began in 1748, and continues today. Approximately 110 of the 160 acres of the ancient city of Pompeii have been excavated, and the site is much larger and well-preserved than expected.

Those fascinated by ancient ruins could easily spend the whole day in Pompeii, or you could combine a few hours touring Pompeii with a trip to Mount Vesuvius or to the island of Capri. We did a full day shore excursion from Naples that included a ferry to Capri, lunch in Sorrento accompanied by a ride along the marvelous Amalfi coast, and a few hours in Pompeii. It was a day filled with history and natural beauty.