Private Pompeii

Explore the Forum and the City of PompeiiLeaving the pier for your Naples shore excursion, you will begin your journey to Pompeii. Once a major port and a center of wealth and politics, the city was instantly buried beneath 30 feet of volcanic ash and cinder when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. This ancient site is perhaps the most famous archaic excavation in the world. At its peak, Pompeii was home to approximately 20,000 people. It is believed that 2,000 people perished instantly when volcanic ash poured down on the city, thus creating ghostly casts formed by bodies that were encased and incinerated in the hot ash. Walk along intact streets and inspect prominent mansions, private homes adorned with mosaic floors, brilliant frescoes and other works of art, all of which provide an impression of Roman life just as it was 2,000 years ago. Upon arrival, you will enter Pompeii through one of its ancient gates, and a short walk takes you to the city's hub, the Forum. Surrounded by lavish temples and porticoes, you will begin to grasp the lifestyle of the past inhabitants. Admire the mansions and the art of wealthy patricians who moved to Pompeii to escape the turmoil of Rome, including countless paintings and inscriptions. See the streets with raised pavements on both sides and the stepping-stones that ensured pedestrians a safe crossing at intersections. After your visit to Pompeii, you will return to Naples.