Pompeii: The Eternal City Frozen in Time

• HelloCiao
  [chow]
• GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ar-ri-ve-der-chi]
• YesSì
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [per fa-vo-re/pre-go]
• Thank youGrazie
  [gra-tzi-e]
• Excuse me/SorryMi scusi/Scusa
  [mi skoo-zee/skoo-za]
• How are you?Come stai?
  [ko-me sty]
• Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [be-ne/e too]
• Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-li een-gle-se]
• I don't understandNon capisco
  [non ca-pi-sko]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vo-rrei ve-de-re eel me-noo, per fa-vo-re]
• I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non man-jo car-ne]
• Cheers!Salute!
  [sa-lu-te]
• I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vo-rrei pa-ga-re, per fa-vo-re]

• Help!Aiuto!
  [ai-u-to]
• Go away!Vai via!
  [vai via]
• Call the Police!Chiama la Polizia!
  [kya-ma la po-lee-tzya]
• Call a doctor!Chiama un medico!
  [kya-ma oon me-di-ko]
• I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mi so-no per-so]
• I'm illSto male
  [sto ma-le]

• I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vo-rrei com-pra-re]
• I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto so-lo guar-dan-do]
• How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwon-to cos-ta]
• That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [e tro-po ca-ro]
• Can you lower the price?Può abbassare il prezzo?
  [puo ab-ba-sa-re eel pre-tso]

• What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [ke o-re so-no]
• It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [e loo-na]
• Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [so-no le dyee-che e met-za]
• MorningMattina
  [mat-tee-na]
• AfternoonPomeriggio
  [po-me-ree-djo]
• EveningSera
  [se-ra]
• YesterdayIeri
  [ye-ri]
• TodayOggi
  [oj-ji]
• TomorrowDomani
  [do-ma-ni]
• 1Uno
  [oo-no]
• 2Due
  [dwe]
• 3Tre
  [tre]
• 4Quattro
  [kwa-ttro]
• 5Cinque
  [cheen-kwe]
• 6Sei
  [say]
• 7Sette
  [set-te]
• 8Otto
  [ot-to]
• 9Nove
  [no-ve]
• 10Dieci
  [dyee-che]

• Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [do-ve]
• What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwal e lin-di-rit-tso]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwow mo-sta-rmi/sul-la map-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwan-do pas-sa eel pro-so-mo/au-to-boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-lyet-to/per]

Pompeii was founded in the 7th or 6th century BC by the Oscans, an Italic people. It later came under Greek and Etruscan influence before becoming a Roman colony in 80 BC, known as Colonia Cornelia Veneria Pompeianorum.

During the Roman era, Pompeii flourished as a bustling city with a population of around 11,000 to 15,000 people. The city was known for its well-developed infrastructure, including an amphitheater, aqueducts, baths, and a sophisticated sewer system. Pompeii was also a significant center for agriculture, trade, and commerce.

On August 24, 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted catastrophically, burying Pompeii under a thick layer of volcanic ash and pumice. The eruption lasted for two days, and the city was quickly enveloped, preserving buildings, artifacts, and even the bodies of its inhabitants in remarkable detail.

Pompeii remained buried until its rediscovery in 1748 by Spanish engineer Rocque Joaquin de Alcubierre. Excavations began, revealing a well-preserved snapshot of Roman life. The site has since become one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, offering invaluable insights into ancient Roman culture and daily life.

The Forum was the heart of public life in Pompeii, serving as a central marketplace and gathering spot for political, economic, and religious activities. Surrounded by important buildings such as the Basilica and the Temple of Jupiter, the Forum was a bustling hub of activity.

One of the largest and most luxurious residences in Pompeii, the House of the Faun is renowned for its intricate mosaics, including the famous 'Alexander Mosaic' depicting the Battle of Issus. This grand house exemplifies the wealth and sophistication of Pompeii's elite citizens.

Built around 70 BC, the amphitheater of Pompeii is one of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheaters. It could hold up to 20,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial games and other public spectacles. Its well-preserved state provides a vivid picture of Roman entertainment.

Pompeii was home to several public bath complexes, including the Stabian Baths, the Forum Baths, and the Central Baths. These baths were not only places for bathing but also social centers where people gathered to relax and converse. The baths featured advanced heating systems and beautifully decorated rooms.

Located on the outskirts of Pompeii, the Villa of the Mysteries is famous for its well-preserved frescoes depicting the initiation rites of the Dionysian Mysteries. These vibrant and enigmatic paintings offer a glimpse into the religious practices and artistic achievements of the time.

The streets of Pompeii were meticulously planned and paved with large stone blocks. Many streets had stepping stones for pedestrians to cross when the roads were flooded. The city's layout, including its grid pattern and inscriptions on walls, helps us understand the organization and daily life of its inhabitants.

Pompeii is located in the Campania region of Italy, near the Bay of Naples. The nearest major airport is Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino), approximately 30 kilometers from Pompeii. From Naples, you can take a direct train from Napoli Centrale station to Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus from Naples to Pompeii.

Pompeii can be easily navigated by foot, especially within the archaeological site. For travelling around the town or nearby areas, local buses and taxis are available. The Circumvesuviana train line connects Pompeii to Naples, Sorrento, and other nearby destinations, making it a convenient option for day trips. If you plan to explore the surrounding region, renting a car can provide added flexibility.

The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are readily available throughout Pompeii. Be sure to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.

Pompeii is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any popular tourist spot, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep your belongings secure. Stay vigilant, particularly around the train station and popular tourist areas. Walking alone at night in poorly lit areas is not recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to emergency services including police, fire, and medical help. Pompeii has local police stations and medical facilities to assist tourists. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the town where you can purchase necessary medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Avoid wearing high heels or flip-flops within the archaeological site. Religion: Do show respect when visiting religious sites; dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good Morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good Evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as pizza, pasta, and seafood. Don't rush your meals; dining is a leisurely affair in Italy.

To experience Pompeii like a local, visit the town's markets where you can buy fresh produce and local specialties. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their town. Don't miss the opportunity to explore less crowded areas of the archaeological site, such as the Villa of the Mysteries. For a unique experience, consider booking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and culture of Pompeii.

Pompeii experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be very hot and crowded, while winter is less busy but can be rainy.

The official language of Pompeii is Italian. While many people in the tourism industry speak English, learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals. Common phrases include 'Grazie' (Thank you), 'Per favore' (Please), and 'Scusa' (Excuse me).