Day 5 in Rome was an exciting adventure as I headed out on a day trip to Pompeii, a place that had been on my travel bucket list for ages. I booked the trip through Get Your Guide, and even though it was a long day, it was absolutely worth it. The ease of hopping on a bus from Rome to Pompeii, instead of figuring out the high speed train schedule and then how to get to the ruins, made the trip simple and stress-free, allowing me to focus on exploring the ruins of this ancient city. At this point in my 4 month journey, the focus is definitely on easy and stress free sightseeing.
The journey began at 7:30 at the meeting point at Piazza Della Repubblica. Our first stop on our way to Pompeii, was a drive through Naples, a vibrant and bustling city that’s often considered the heart of southern Italy. Known for its rich history, colorful streets, and being the birthplace of pizza, Naples offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern energy. With Mount Vesuvius looming in the background and the sparkling Bay of Naples nearby, the city is packed with character. From its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, to its lively street markets and impressive castles, Naples gives you a true taste of authentic Italian culture, even if just passing through.
Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, and for good reason. This Roman city was completely buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, covering Pompeii in ash and preserving it almost perfectly for centuries. Walking through the ruins, I was able to see homes, streets, shops, and even an amphitheater, all frozen in time. It was surreal to walk the same streets where ancient Romans once lived, worked, and socialized.
One of the most chilling aspects of Pompeii is the plaster casts of people who were caught in the eruption. As ash rained down on the city, many were trapped and eventually perished, their final moments forever preserved. The level of preservation here is incredible, providing a unique window into daily life during the Roman Empire.
We wandered through homes, learned about the aquaduct system, explored the bath house, the amphitheater and the basilica. It was an amazing experience to just learn more about how people lived and thrived over 2000 years ago.
The Amphitheater of Pompeii is one of the oldest and best-preserved amphitheaters in the world, dating back to 70 BC. This massive structure could hold around 20,000 spectators and was used for gladiator battles, sporting events, and public spectacles. Walking through the amphitheater, you can easily imagine the roaring crowds as gladiators fought for their lives in the arena. It’s fascinating to see how the Romans designed this architectural masterpiece, which predates the Colosseum in Rome by more than a century.
The Basilica of Pompeii, located near the forum, served as the city’s main administrative and judicial center. Built in the 2nd century BC, this large rectangular building was used for business transactions and legal proceedings. Though much of its roof and walls are missing, the surviving columns and foundation provide a glimpse into its grandeur. The basilica’s design influenced future church architecture, making it an important landmark not only for Pompeii but also for Roman architectural history.
The day trip was long, but standing in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius and exploring the ruins of Pompeii was an unforgettable experience, offering a powerful connection to ancient history and humanity.
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