Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Pompeii with Family

A Final Day in Pompeii

As our ten-day exploration of Pompeii draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've undertaken. Today was a blend of revisiting cherished sites and discovering new corners of this ancient city, all while savoring the local flavors one last time. It's a bittersweet feeling, knowing that our time here is ending, but I am also filled with gratitude for the memories we've created.

Our final day began, as many others have, with a delightful breakfast at Il Posticino. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our last day of exploration. Klaus and I enjoyed our usual: a simple yet satisfying meal of crusty bread, local cheese, and strong espresso. It's become a comforting ritual, a small pleasure that grounds us before we delve into the historical wonders that await. This morning, we were especially eager to revisit the Pompeii Ruins and explore the House of the Tragic Poet.

The Pompeii Ruins, as always, were captivating. Even after several visits, the sheer scale and historical weight of the site never fail to impress. Today, we focused on areas we hadn't fully explored, wandering through the less-traveled streets and alleyways. It's in these quieter corners that one truly feels the pulse of ancient Pompeii, imagining the lives of the people who once walked these very paths. The June sun was high in the sky, casting long shadows across the ruins, but a gentle breeze kept the heat at bay.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

Our next stop was the House of the Tragic Poet , a place that has intrigued me since my days as a student of history. This Roman house, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, is renowned for its elaborate mosaic floors and frescoes depicting scenes from Greek mythology. Although not remarkable in size, the interior decorations are of the highest quality, offering a glimpse into the artistic tastes of the wealthy inhabitants of Pompeii. Klaus, with his archaeological background, was particularly excited to examine the construction techniques and the materials used.

As we approached the entrance, the famous mosaic of the chained dog with the inscription Cave Canem (Beware of the Dog) immediately caught our attention. It's a testament to the wit and practicality of the Romans, a warning that still resonates across the centuries. Inside, we marveled at the well-preserved frescoes, especially those related to the Iliad, which inspired the house's alternative names: the Homeric House or the Iliadic House. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the mosaics transported us back in time, allowing us to imagine the house as it once was, filled with life and activity.

The House of the Tragic Poet, discovered in November 1824 by archaeologist Antonio Bonucci, has captivated scholars and writers for generations. Lord Edward Bulwer Lytton's *The Last Days of Pompeii* accurately describes the house's details, and Waldemar Kaden's *In the Redness of Dawn* portrays it as inhabited by a Christian man named Gaius Sabinus. Vladimir Janovic's *The House of the Tragic Poet*, an epic poem, draws inspiration from the mosaic and fresco images throughout the villa. It's fascinating to see how this house has inspired so many artistic interpretations.

Originally, the house contained more than twenty painted and mosaic panels, with six now relocated to the National Archaeological Museum in Naples. These panels, chosen for their relation to the Iliad, highlight the cultural and artistic connections between Pompeii and ancient Greece. The painted wall panels exemplify the Fourth Pompeiian style, showcasing the evolution of Roman art.

Leaving the House of the Tragic Poet, we strolled towards Ristorante Pompeo Magno for lunch. This restaurant, located a short distance from the ruins, came highly recommended for its traditional Neapolitan cuisine and excellent service. We were not disappointed. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the staff greeted us with genuine hospitality. Klaus and I shared a pizza margherita, its simple yet perfect combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil a testament to the quality of local ingredients. We also tried the risotto cacio e pepe con mazzancolle e agrumi di Sorrento, a delightful dish with creamy risotto, shrimp, and a hint of citrus.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the culinary delights we've experienced throughout our stay. From the simplest street food to the most refined restaurant dishes, Pompeii has offered a feast for the senses. It's a reminder that food is not just sustenance but also a cultural expression, a way to connect with the history and traditions of a place. We felt very fortunate to have Jaimee as our waitress, who was assisted by the owner/manager in English.

After lunch, we indulged in a sweet treat at Pasticceria De Vivo since 1955 in Pompeii. This pastry shop, a local institution, is known for its traditional Neapolitan pastries and innovative desserts. We sampled a variety of treats, including sfogliatelle, babà, and pastiera, each one a miniature work of art. The De Vivo family has been crafting these delights for generations, using recipes passed down through the years. The shop was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to savor the sweet flavors of Pompeii.

The aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air as we stepped inside. Marco De Vivo, along with his wife Ester and daughter Simona, continues the family tradition, using the same mother yeast that his grandparents used in their bakery in the 1930s. De Vivo offers a vast selection of typical Neapolitan products, from the softness of a pastiera to the crispness of a warm sfogliatella, and the rum-soaked babà. Their cocoa creations, made with strictly single-origin cocoa, transform into extraordinary chocolates, pralines, and tablets with an authentic scent and aroma.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to La Sosta Di Vino for our final dinner in Pompeii. This restaurant, recommended for its intimate atmosphere and regional cuisine, provided the perfect setting for a farewell meal. We savored each course, from the handmade pasta to the locally sourced seafood, accompanied by a bottle of robust red wine. The conversation flowed easily as we reminisced about our favorite moments from the past ten days. It was a fitting end to our Pompeian adventure.

Tonight, we enjoyed Pecorino fritters with pear sauce and beef tartare for our antipasti, followed by Pici with pork ragu and Paccheri with Tuscan bacon, onion, and ewe's cheese for our primis. For dessert, we chose the Tiramisu and the Pistachio Cannoli with apricot jam. The Tiramisu was a show stopper, with a luscious, silky texture of mascarpone cream perfectly complemented by sponge cake soaked in rich espresso coffee.

As we prepare to leave Pompeii tomorrow, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. This ancient city has offered us a unique glimpse into the past, a chance to connect with history in a tangible and meaningful way. We've explored its ruins, savored its flavors, and met its people, each experience leaving an indelible mark on our hearts. While I am eager to return to Heidelberg and resume my work at the library, I know that a part of me will always remain in Pompeii.

Tomorrow, we embark on our journey back to Germany, carrying with us a treasure trove of memories and experiences. While this chapter of our Italian adventure comes to a close, I am already looking forward to our next exploration, wherever it may lead. Until then, *arrivederci* from Pompeii.

I am also grateful for sharing this adventure with my beloved husband, Klaus. His expertise and enthusiasm have enriched our journey immeasurably. As we prepare to leave Pompeii, I know that the memories we've created here will stay with us for a lifetime.