Pompeii is one of Italy’s biggest draws for tourists. An ancient city destroyed by the nearby volcano Mount Vesuvius’ devastating volcanic eruption in 79 AD. It is now the largest ongoing archaeological site in the world, with artefacts rediscovered every day. But how long was it hidden from the outside world actually for?
Pompeii’s End
Pompeii was once a flourishing city, nestled on the coast and one of the prime hubs for the region’s trading network. However, the city met its demise in 79 AD, when the nearby volcano Mount Vesuvius erupted and destroyed all around it. Back then, the citizens weren’t aware of what a volcano was, simply thinking Mount Vesuvius was a large mountain. What led were waves of ash, debris, and toxic gas, destroying all life within the region and burying the entire city in a thick layer of volcanic debris that solidified into stone. Leaving the once-thriving city of Pompeii to disappear completely.
The Hidden Years
Due to the city being deep beneath the ground’s surface, Pompeii was completely sealed off from human intervention for decades. Only to be rediscovered in 1599 by the architect Domenico Fontana, who was constructing an underground channel in the area, hoping to connect his tunnel to the nearby river Sarno. While digging into the land, Fontana discovered a number of ruins, which featured beautiful frescoes. However, it was said that Fontana was quite the religious man and was horrified by the X-rated frescoes’ which showcased nudity and other scandalous things, so due to this, he quickly covered them up again. Another hundred years passed until the next rediscovery in the early 1700s. During the construction for a summer palace for the King of Naples, which led to the discovery of a section of Pompeii to be discovered. This prompted for a large investigation on the region, with many of the royals plundering the area for ancient and significant artworks for their palaces. It wasn’t until the 1800s that archaeologists started studying the area appropriately, which began the longest continually excavated site ever seen.
What can you see at Pompeii today?
A third of the city is still said to be buried, with the rest of the sections available to be seen by tourists. Archaeologist continued to bury and discover new and exciting things every day, getting a better insight on the lost secrets of Pompeii. Travellers can stroll about this huge city to see the crumbling buildings, public landmarks, and private homes of this once-thriving city. Stepping on the original cobblestone streets that weave through the historic sites. Regardless of whether you are a history buff, you will be in awe by the shockingly preserved frescoes, amphitheatre, shops, and more dotted about the ancient city.
