In its heyday, Pompeii was an upscale coastal city popular as a vacation destination among wealthy Romans. This, combined with its status as a thriving center of trade and industry on the Mediterranean, made it a vibrant and bustling city that was home to around 12,000 residents.

Today, however, Pompeii is remembered as the site of ancient history’s greatest documented natural disaster. The devastating eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD destroyed Pompeii and the surrounding towns and villages. An estimated 16,000 people died as a result—2,000 of whom perished in the city of Pompeii—and tens of thousands of residents of the region were displaced.

The disaster left Pompeii buried under 20 feet of volcanic ash for hundreds of years until the first excavation efforts began in the 18th century. The quick burial of the city has provided modern archaeologists with a unique snapshot of Roman life. Pompeii’s well-preserved ruins have revealed intricate details about the architecture, culture, and lifestyle of the inhabitants during that time, making it a fascinating visit and a must-do on any Italy itinerary.

To fully make the most of your time in Pompeii, book a guided tour with an archaeologist. The ruins can be difficult to decipher on your own, and the facts and stories you’ll hear from an expert who has dedicated their life to studying the site will make your experience that much more meaningful.

Reviews: Walk On Walk Off: Flexible Rome Tour Pass with Colosseum Tickets & Roma Pass

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