Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Pompeii with Family

A Day Among Ghosts

Today marked the beginning of our Pompeian adventure, and what a start it was! I’ve dreamt of walking these ancient streets, of tracing the footsteps of those who lived and loved here before Vesuvius unleashed its fury. To finally be here, with Klaus and the family, is surreal. I felt a profound connection to the past, a sense of walking among ghosts, each stone whispering stories of a life interrupted.



Our day began, as all good days should, with a hearty breakfast at Hortus Pompei, Restaurant & Garden Bar. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, a delightful contrast to the somber explorations that awaited us. The garden setting was lovely, a little oasis of calm before diving into history. I enjoyed a simple breakfast of fruit and yogurt, while Klaus, ever the traditionalist, opted for a strong espresso and a pastry. It was a perfect way to fuel up for a day of walking and discovery.


Discover Hortus Pompei: A delightful fusion of exquisite Italian cuisine and serene garden ambiance near the ancient ruins.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured into the Archaeological Park of Pompeii. Stepping through the gates felt like crossing a threshold into another world. The sheer scale of the city is breathtaking. Buildings stand frozen in time, streets still bearing the ruts of ancient carts. I could almost hear the echoes of daily life – the chatter of merchants, the laughter of children, the clip-clop of horses’ hooves.


Explore the preserved ruins of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient Roman life and culture.

We decided to wander without a guide, preferring to absorb the atmosphere at our own pace. However, I did notice many qualified freelance guides offering their services at the entrances. Perhaps tomorrow we might consider one, to delve deeper into the stories behind the stones. But today, I was content to simply wander and wonder.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

Our first stop was the House of the Faun. The largest and most opulent residence in Pompeii, it truly gives you a sense of the wealth and status of its former inhabitants. The house is named after the bronze statue of a dancing faun found in the impluvium, a rainwater collection basin in the atrium. The original statue is now in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, but even the copy standing there today is captivating. I was particularly struck by the Alexander Mosaic, a massive and incredibly detailed depiction of the Battle of Issus. The artistry and skill required to create such a masterpiece are astounding. Klaus, of course, was in his element, pointing out architectural details and speculating about the lives of those who once called this place home.


Delve into the opulent world of ancient Rome at the House of the Faun, an iconic archaeological masterpiece in Pompeii, Italy.

After the House of the Faun, we strolled along the ancient streets, marveling at the shops, the public baths, and the remnants of everyday life. We saw bakeries with their ovens still intact, and the ruts worn into the stones by countless carts. It was a tangible connection to the past, a reminder that these were real people, not just figures in a history book. What struck me most was the colorfulness of the city. The famous “Pompeian red” is still visible on many walls, a vibrant hue that brings the ruins to life.


For lunch, we sought refuge from the midday sun at Caupona Pompeii. This restaurant is designed to recreate the dining experience of ancient Pompeii, and it was quite the experience. The atmosphere was magical, with hand-painted frescoes and soft, warm lighting. The staff were dressed in period costumes, adding to the immersive feel. We ate typical dishes of ancient Rome, served in terracotta dishes and drank wine from amphorae. The food was delicious and surprisingly modern, a testament to the culinary skills of the ancient Romans. It was fascinating to imagine what it would have been like to dine in a tavern like this nearly two thousand years ago.


Discover ancient Roman flavors at Caupona Pompeii, where history meets modern dining in an unforgettable culinary experience.

In the afternoon, we visited the Villa dei Misteri. Located just outside the city walls, this suburban villa is famous for its well-preserved frescoes, particularly those in the Room of Mysteries. These frescoes are believed to depict the initiation of a woman into a mystery cult, possibly related to Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility. The colors are incredibly vivid, and the scenes are both enigmatic and captivating. I spent a long time simply gazing at these paintings, trying to decipher their meaning. Klaus, with his archaeological background, offered some interesting interpretations, but ultimately, the mysteries remained unsolved.


Explore the Villa dei Misteri in Pompei, where stunning frescoes reveal the secrets of ancient Roman life and culture, all within a serene archaeological oasis.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back towards the entrance, stopping for a refreshing drink at Methe Pompei. This vibrant bar offered a welcome respite from the heat and dust of the ruins. Sipping a cool Aperol spritz, we reflected on all that we had seen and experienced. It had been a long and emotional day, but one that I will never forget.


Experience the warmth of local hospitality at Methe Pompei, a charming bar offering refreshing drinks and light bites in the heart of Pompeii.

For dinner, we decided to try La Bettola Del Gusto. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was simply divine. I had the seafood risotto, which was cooked to perfection, while Klaus opted for a traditional Neapolitan pizza. We shared a bottle of local wine, and toasted to our first day in Pompeii. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Savor exquisite seafood and steak at La Bettola Del Gusto in Pompeii – where culinary excellence meets historical charm.

As I sit here now, writing this in our cozy room at Diana Inn Accomodations, my mind is still buzzing with images of Pompeii. The scale of the tragedy that befell this city is immense, but so too is the resilience of the human spirit. To walk these streets is to connect with the past in a profound and meaningful way. I am so grateful for this experience, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.


Experience comfort and convenience at Diana Inn Accommodations, perfectly located in the heart of Pompei, ideal for exploring ancient ruins and natural wonders.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Mount Vesuvius and the Vesuvius National Park [Tomorrow]. It will be a different perspective, to look down upon the city from the very volcano that destroyed it. A sobering thought, but one that I feel is necessary to fully understand the story of Pompeii.


I must remember to buy sunscreen tomorrow; I completely forgot to pack it [TripEssentialsForgotten], and my face is already feeling a little sunburnt. And perhaps a portable phone charger, as my battery died halfway through the afternoon [TripEssentialsForgotten]. But these are minor details. The important thing is that we are here, together, experiencing this incredible place. And I can’t wait to share more of our adventures with you.