Drum roll… This is the last tic on my bucket list! And as I write this I am struck with a horrific lung infection post visit. I always said once I go to Pompeii I can die, and this just may be the case, but in the meantime let’s get this written..

Entering the grounds of Pompeii through the gladiators area it is difficult to imagine how 50 feet of volcanic ash surrounded you and how this was removed to expose these ruins. I am told there are untold numbers of videos portraying the excavation, and I defer to utube for that information.

Gladiator Housing where the gladiators lived and worked.

A replica of a door to their living space.

The Stadium

The stands where 5000 were seated.

The Seminoles began Pompeii in the 6th century B.C., producing wine and olive oil. However, there were long wars with Rome and the Romans finally destroyed the City with Pompeii reconstructed as Roman. It was at this time the gladiator stadiums and theaters were constructed. According to 18th century excavation there was 22000 residents in 66 acres at the time of the volcanic destruction which was 10/24-25 79 A.D.

Mosaics, and frescoes abound in Pompeii with their vibrant colors present. Here are pictures of a thermal bath area.

A Typical Home of the Era.

The exterior and interior of a typical home. Amazing how the exterior markings remain.

Some mummified bodies from the volcanic disaster. 1013 bodies were discovered with the cause of death asphyxiation. Because there was no oxygen the volcanic ash preserved the bodies.

     

    

Brothel - As Pompeii was a seafaring port there were brothels to accommodate the sailors from their long trips at sea.

The interior of the brothel had many small rooms with sexual pictures.

And they even had a toilet in the brothel..

Across the street was a bakery…

The Forum Area - Pompei was divided into streets and avenues. It was known for political propaganda. The City was all about life with marketplaces and restaurants. There are many areas were holes are seen to cook food, similiar to a McDonald’s type operation.

What a thrilling visit and will end with one last flooring depicting Alexandria the Great..

A must see!