Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Pompeii with Family

A Day Among Ghosts

Today, Pompeii truly came alive for me, not with bustling crowds, but with the echoes of daily life from centuries ago. Walking through the Scavi di Pompei, I felt like I was walking alongside the ghosts of this ancient city. Klaus, with his archaeological background, was in his element, pointing out details I might have missed, and together, we pieced together a vivid picture of what life must have been like before that fateful eruption.

Our first stop was, of course, the Scavi di Pompei itself. The sheer scale of the excavation is astounding. It's not just a collection of ruins; it's a sprawling city, frozen in time. We spent hours wandering through the streets, marveling at the remarkably preserved buildings. The artistry and engineering of the ancient Romans were evident everywhere we looked. I could almost hear the sounds of the marketplace and the chatter of daily life.


Explore the ancient city of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where history comes alive amid the ruins of a once-thriving Roman metropolis.

Wandering through the silent streets, I couldn't help but imagine the lives of the people who once walked here. What were their hopes, their dreams, their daily routines? It's a humbling experience to stand in the same spot where families lived, worked, and ultimately met their tragic end. The absence of crowds allowed for a more intimate connection with the site, enhancing the sense of walking through a ghost city. The emotions evoked by the remnants of this ancient civilization were profound, a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of history. It was a privilege to witness such a well-preserved snapshot of the past, and I found myself deeply moved by the stories etched in stone and ash.

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

Next, we headed to the Forum Baths. These baths, located in the heart of Pompeii, were once a bustling hub of social activity. As Klaus explained, the Forum Baths were constructed around 80 BC and were the only ones in use after the earthquake of 62 AD. It's fascinating to imagine people gathering here to exercise, clean themselves, and socialize. The baths were divided into separate sections for men and women, each complete with an apodyterium (changing room), a tepidarium (warm room), a caldarium (hot room), and a frigidarium (cold room). The walls were adorned with beautiful frescoes, and the ceilings were embellished with stucco friezes. I could almost picture the scene: people gossiping, discussing politics, and conducting business deals. It was more than just a place to get clean; it was a vital part of Roman life.


Explore the Forum Baths in Pompeii, a historical landmark showcasing ancient Roman bathing culture and architectural brilliance.

The design of the baths was ingenious, with a sophisticated system for heating the water and circulating warm air. The Romans clearly understood the importance of hygiene and comfort, and they created spaces that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Standing in the ruins of the Forum Baths, I felt a connection to the people who had used these facilities centuries ago. It was a reminder that even in ancient times, people valued their health, their social connections, and their moments of relaxation.

Our final attraction for the day was the House of Menander. This opulent residence, named after the fresco of the Greek playwright Menander, offered a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Pompeii's elite. As we stepped inside, we were immediately struck by the grandeur of the place. The house covers a vast area and is filled with exquisite frescoes, intricate mosaics, and stunning works of art.


Discover the House of Menander in Pompeii, an exquisite archaeological site showcasing Roman art, architecture, and a glimpse into ancient domestic life.

Klaus pointed out the Doric-style columns in the peristyle, a testament to the influence of Greek architecture on Pompeian design. The house was not only a residence but also a hub for business and social gatherings. The location of the House of Menander, in a bustling commercial area, suggests that the owner was a successful entrepreneur who used his home to impress clients and conduct business. We learned that the house may have belonged to Quintus Poppaeus, possibly a relative of Emperor Nero's wife, Poppaea Sabina. This connection to the imperial family would have further elevated the owner's status and influence. The House of Menander provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of Pompeii's elite, a world of wealth, power, and artistic refinement.

For breakfast, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Na' Pasta. This charming little restaurant is known for its authentic Italian pasta dishes. I opted for the classic spaghetti alla carbonara, while Klaus chose the pasta with seafood. Both dishes were cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The pasta was perfectly al dente, and the sauces were rich and creamy. It was the perfect way to start our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Na' Pasta in Pompei – where fresh pasta meets warm hospitality.

The restaurant itself is small and cozy, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff were friendly and accommodating, making us feel right at home. Na' Pasta is clearly a local favorite, and it's easy to see why. The food is delicious, the prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is welcoming. If you're looking for an authentic Italian dining experience in Pompeii, Na' Pasta is a must-visit. I can see why some have called their pasta life-changing.

For lunch, we chose Ristorante Anfiteatro. Located near the amphitheater, this restaurant offers a wide range of Italian dishes, with a focus on local Campanian cuisine. We decided to try the pizza, which came highly recommended. I had the Margherita, while Klaus went for the Diavola. The pizzas were delicious, with a thin, crispy crust and flavorful toppings. The service was excellent, and the prices were reasonable. It was the perfect spot to refuel after a morning of exploring the ruins.


Experience authentic Italian dining at Ristorante Anfiteatro in Pompei, where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.

The atmosphere at Ristorante Anfiteatro was relaxed and inviting. The restaurant is popular with both tourists and locals, which is always a good sign. The staff were friendly and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. If you're looking for a tasty and affordable lunch near the amphitheater in Pompeii, Ristorante Anfiteatro is an excellent choice.

For dinner, we opted for Add'ù Mimì. This traditional trattoria is known for its authentic Neapolitan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We started with the antipasto misto, a selection of local cheeses, cured meats, and marinated vegetables. For our main courses, I chose the pasta e fagioli con le cozze (pasta and beans with mussels), while Klaus went for the pasta with seafood. Both dishes were hearty and flavorful, showcasing the best of Neapolitan cooking.


Experience authentic Italian seafood at Add'ù Mimì in Pompei—where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.

The atmosphere at Add'ù Mimì was warm and welcoming. The trattoria is family-run, and the staff treated us like honored guests. The prices were reasonable, and the portions were generous. If you're looking for an authentic Neapolitan dining experience in Pompeii, Add'ù Mimì is a must-visit. We ended the meal with a delicious ricotta and pear cake, a perfect way to cap off a wonderful day.

To cap off the evening, we stopped by Open Bar Pompei for a nightcap. This lively bar offers a wide selection of drinks, from classic cocktails to local wines. I ordered a glass of limoncello, while Klaus opted for a local red wine. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, and we enjoyed chatting with the locals. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring Pompeii.


Discover Open Bar Pompei, a lively bar and cafeteria offering delicious snacks and refreshing drinks in the heart of historic Pompeii.

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of awe and gratitude. Pompeii is a truly remarkable place, a window into the past that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the ancient Romans. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the House of the Vettii, the Temple of Isis, and the Amphitheatre of Pompeii. I'm also hoping to pick up a few souvenirs at Ricordi Pompeiani di Antonio Cestra. I'm so glad that Klaus and I decided to embark on this adventure together. It's a journey that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

It's easy to forget essentials when traveling, and I realized today that I forgot to pack sunscreen and a portable phone charger. Hopefully, I can find some sunscreen tomorrow!