The ancient Roman city of Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Buried under layers of volcanic ash and pumice following the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, Pompeii remained hidden for almost 1,700 years. Its excavation, which began in the 18th century, has provided invaluable insights into Roman life, culture, and architecture, offering a unique glimpse into the daily lives of people living in the Roman Empire.

The Eruption of Mount Vesuvius

On August 24, 79 CE, Mount Vesuvius erupted with a violent explosion that buried Pompeii, along with the nearby cities of Herculaneum, Stabiae, and Oplontis, in volcanic ash and debris. The eruption was so sudden and violent that many residents of Pompeii had no time to escape. The city was blanketed in a thick layer of ash, which preserved buildings, artworks, and even the remains of the inhabitants.

The eruption released molten rock, pumice, and toxic gas into the atmosphere, causing pyroclastic surges and burying the city beneath as much as 30 feet (9 meters) of ash and pumice. Over the centuries, Pompeii was forgotten, its exact location lost to time.

Rediscovery of Pompeii

The rediscovery of Pompeii began in the 16th century when architect Pietro Fabris made the first documented reference to the city, but it wasn’t until the 18th century that large-scale excavations began. In 1748, the Kingdom of Naples, under the rule of King Charles III, initiated a formal excavation at the site, marking the beginning of modern archaeological efforts in Pompeii. shutdown123