Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius Tickets

Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii FAQs

• What is Mount Vesuvius?
• Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano in southern Italy, near Naples. It's known for its catastrophic eruption in 79 AD, which buried Pompeii and Herculaneum, the next towns along.
• How far is Pompeii from Mount Vesuvius?
• Pompeii is about 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) from Mount Vesuvius.
• What happened to the people of Pompeii during the eruption?
• Many residents were sadly killed by the pyroclastic flows and ashfall. Their bodies were buried, and some left behind impressions that modern archaeologists have preserved using plaster casts.
• Can you climb Mount Vesuvius?
• Yes, you can hike to the crater of Mount Vesuvius. The trail offers amazing views of Naples and the surrounding region.
• Why is Pompeii so well-preserved?
• Pompeii was buried under a thick layer of volcanic ash and pumice, which sealed and preserved the city for centuries.
• Are there guided tours of Pompeii?
  Yes. Click HERE for ticket options.
• What is the significance of Pompeii’s frescoes?
• The frescoes provide a vivid glimpse into Roman art, culture, and daily life, including mythology, rituals, and leisure activities.

Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii Interesting Facts

• A Bustling City: Pompeii was a bustling city of about 11,000 people when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD.
• Active Volcano: Mount Vesuvius is the only active volcano on the European mainland.
• Energy: The eruption of 79 AD released thermal energy 100,000 times more powerful than the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
• Preservation: The ash and pumice preserved not only buildings but also food, utensils, and even graffiti in Pompeii.
• Site Digs: In Pompeii, archaeologists found loaves of bread still intact in ovens that were carbonized by the heat.
• More Eruptions: Vesuvius has erupted over 50 times since 79 AD, with the most recent eruption occurring during World War II.
• Volcano: The word "volcano" comes from Vulcan, the Roman god of fire.
• Herculaneum: Unlike Pompeii, Herculaneum was buried under a thick layer of mud, which preserved organic materials like wooden furniture.
• ‍UNESCO World Heritage Site: Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions to see it each year.