Pompeii Italy. The story of Pompeii is iconic, tragic and well known. So, what are the best Pompeii tourist attractions? What are the things to see in Pompeii? To visit the attractions in Pompeii it is best to get a guide who is an archaeologist to show you around. Lets get into the Pompeii story now!
History
In 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted and destroyed the city of Pompeii. The city was blanketed by a deadly volcanic ash cloud where many people died before they could escape the disaster. Through years and years of excavations, we are discovering the hidden treasures inside Pompeii.
Here are the main attractions in Pompeii.
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Amphitheater
The Amphitheater built around 70 BC, is one of the earliest and oldest stone amphitheaters. The word amphitheater is Greek for “theater with seats on all sides”. Circular and oval in shape, the amphitheater’s raised levels means audiences in all seats, have a bird’s eye view of the action.
The Amphitheater in Pompeii was used as an entertainment venue hosting gladiator contests, religious celebrations and animal executions.
Today, the amphitheatre is used as an open-air concert destination for visiting international music artists.
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Forum
The Forum was the center of daily life in ancient Pompeii. Forum means “ a place of assembly“. A rectangular open area, it was the central business district which housed public buildings for; city administration, justice, business management, markets, bath houses and places of worship.
The Forum would have been the place to meet, do business, or sell goods. Walking through the ancient ruins of Pompeii, piece by piece you learn more and more about this fascinating city.
Another experience you won’t want to miss!
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Bronze Statues
The citizens of Pompeii worshiped many Graeco-Roman gods. So they built bronze statues of these gods which are scattered throughout the city.
One popular statue is the Centaur. The Centaur is a creature from Greek mythology with the upper body of a human and lower body of a horse.
The Centaur was a wild, unpredictable creature known for its cruelty and chaotic behavior.
These bronze statues are representative of the Greek influence in both Pompeii and also Rome.
Food Shop
The Food Shop or “Thermopolium”, was an important feature in Pompeii society. The Thermopolium or “cook shops”, were the place to buy ready made hot food.
These “cook shops” have a similar purpose to our current day fast food restaurants. A place to buy a meal where you don’t have to cook it.
Plaster casts
Those who didn’t escape are forever remembered by the body imprints that are now immortalised in the Pompeii plaster. Telling a story of sudden death with no way out. I wonder if the citizens of Pompeii knew of their fate? This will forever remain a mystery. A heartbreaking moment frozen in time.
The bodies no longer exist but these plaster casts give us an insight of that fateful day.
Pompeii has historically importance to Italy and the world. One unexpected natural event so many years ago, put Pompeii and its citizens on the map.
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As excavation continues at the site, regular discoveries help us learn more and more about this intriguing city.
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Linda is a best selling author, travel blogger and travel coach. Her website The Smart Travelista offers travel resources and tips via her blog, books, videos and more.
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