Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Pompeii with Family

A Day Immersed in Pompeii's Ancient Wonders

Today, Pompeii truly captivated me, offering a profound connection to the lives of those who walked these streets centuries ago. It's remarkable how much history is etched into every stone, every fresco, every corner of this ancient city. Klaus and I, along with the family, spent the day exploring some of Pompeii's most iconic landmarks, each telling its own unique story.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Stuzzico By Lucius. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, a perfect start before diving into the ancient ruins. The reviews I had read beforehand were spot on; it was indeed a cozy, family-run establishment, far from the typical tourist traps. I opted for a simple yet satisfying cornetto and cappuccino, while Klaus enjoyed a more hearty frittata. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore the wonders of Pompeii.

Our first stop was the House of the Vettii. As a librarian with a love for history, I had read extensively about this opulent home, but nothing could have prepared me for the reality of standing within its walls. The House of the Vettii, named after the Vettii brothers, Aulus Vettius Conviva and Aulus Vettius Restitutus, two freedmen who rose to prominence as successful wine merchants, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of Pompeii's nouveau riche. It was fascinating to imagine how these brothers, once enslaved, had amassed such wealth and status, transforming their home into a showcase of their success.


Explore the House of the Vettii in Pompeii, a stunning archaeological site showcasing Roman wealth and artistry through exquisite frescoes and architecture.

The house itself is a stunning example of Roman architecture and artistry. The intricate frescoes that adorn the walls are incredibly well-preserved, offering a vibrant snapshot of Roman life and mythology. We were particularly struck by the famous fresco of Priapus, the god of fertility, a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. The mythological depictions throughout the house were intended to demonstrate the cultural literacy and sophistication of the Vettii brothers. The dimensions and design of the dwelling indicate an adherence to the classic Roman *domus* model, with a grand atrium, peristyle garden, *triclinium* (dining room), and a number of *cubicula* (bedrooms). Walking through the rooms, I could almost hear the echoes of lively conversations, the clinking of glasses, and the laughter of guests. Klaus, with his archaeological background, provided insightful commentary, pointing out architectural details and explaining the significance of various artworks. He was in his element, and his enthusiasm was infectious.

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

Next, we ventured to the Temple of Isis. This remarkably well-preserved temple is dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis, whose cult had spread throughout the Roman Empire. The temple's presence in Pompeii highlights the city's multicultural character and the Romans' fascination with Egyptian culture. The original temple was built during the reign of Emperor Augustus, but it was damaged in the earthquake of 62 AD and subsequently rebuilt by Numerius Popidius Ampliatus.


Explore the Temple of Isis in Pompeii, a historical gem that unveils the ancient city's spiritual connections and architectural wonders.

Stepping into the Temple of Isis felt like entering a different world. The temple is small and almost intact, and was one of the first discoveries during the excavation of Pompeii in 1764. The air was thick with a sense of mystery and reverence. I could imagine the priests and priestesses performing their rituals, chanting ancient hymns, and offering sacrifices to the goddess. It was particularly interesting to learn that the cult of Isis was popular among women, freedmen, and slaves. It offered them a sense of belonging and empowerment in a society that often marginalized them.

Our final attraction of the day was the Amphitheatre of Pompeii. Built around 70 BC, it is the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater in existence. Standing in the arena, I could almost hear the roar of the crowd, the clash of swords, and the cries of gladiators. It was a chilling reminder of the brutal entertainment that was once commonplace in Roman society. The amphitheater could accommodate around 20,000 spectators, not only from Pompeii, but also from the surrounding towns.


Explore the Amphitheatre of Pompeii, the oldest Roman amphitheatre, where history and architecture intertwine in a breathtaking ancient setting.

Klaus recounted the story of the riot that erupted in 59 AD during a gladiatorial contest between the residents of Pompeii and those from the neighboring city of Nuceria. The event, known as the Nucerian Riot, resulted in the Senate imposing a ten-year ban on such spectacles in the amphitheater. It was a stark reminder that even in the midst of entertainment, tensions and rivalries could boil over. The fact that the amphitheater also served as a barracks for gladiators added another layer of intrigue. Archaeologists have discovered rooms beneath the arena that were likely used by gladiators and animals before they entered the arena.

After a long day of exploring, we were famished. For lunch, we chose Ventuno grammi - anima in cucina, drawn in by its charming atmosphere and the promise of authentic Neapolitan cuisine. We shared a delicious pizza margherita and a plate of spaghetti alle vongole, savoring every bite. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the clams were fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect way to refuel after a day of historical immersion.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ventuno grammi - anima in cucina, where tradition meets taste in the heart of Pompei.

Before heading back to our cozy Diana Inn Accommodations, we stopped by Ricordi Pompeiani di Antonio Cestra, a local shop, to pick up a few souvenirs. I found a beautiful reproduction of a fresco from the House of the Vettii, a perfect reminder of our day exploring the home of the wealthy freedmen. Klaus, of course, chose a book about the archaeology of Pompeii to add to his already extensive collection. It was a lovely way to support local artisans and bring a piece of Pompeii home with us.


Discover unique souvenirs at Ricordi Pompeiani di Antonio Cestra, where every piece tells a story of Pompeii's rich heritage.

For dinner, we decided on Ristorante pizzeria Turistico, enticed by its traditional Italian fare and proximity to the ruins. While the name might suggest a tourist trap, the food was surprisingly good. Klaus opted for the spaghetti alle vongole again, while I enjoyed a hearty lasagna. It was a satisfying end to a day filled with history, culture, and culinary delights. Though some online reviews mention it being a touristy spot, we found the service to be welcoming and the food comforting after a long day.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Pizzeria Turistico in Pompei – where every meal is a celebration of culinary tradition.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day's adventures, I am filled with a sense of awe and gratitude. Pompeii is more than just a collection of ruins; it is a living testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the human spirit. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Herculaneum and Villa San Marco. I am eager to see how this smaller, wealthier town compares to Pompeii, and to uncover more stories from the past. But for now, I will rest and dream of gladiators, goddesses, and the vibrant frescoes of Pompeii.

The events of today reminded me of a quote by Cicero:

To be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child.

It encapsulates the importance of understanding history, not just as a collection of facts, but as a way to understand ourselves and the world around us. Good night from Pompeii !

It is worth noting that there are several events and festivals around Pompeii in June and July 2025, including the NZIEM Festival, Nocera Jazz Festival, and the Noisy Naples Festival. Additionally, the Amphitheater of Pompeii will host concerts by various artists in the summer of 2025, including Andrea Bocelli, Gianna Nannini, and Ben Harper. These events promise to blend music with the historic atmosphere of the Roman ruins. There is also an exhibition on display called Being a woman in ancient Pompeii, exploring women’s daily lives and roles in Roman society through frescoes, portraits and graffiti.