POMPEII
A walk through Pompeii takes you back to 79 AD, when Mount Vesuvius preserved this Roman city in volcanic ash. Enter through the Porta Marina, where you’ll find yourself on the main street leading to the Forum, the city’s political and commercial heart. Here, the Temple of Apollo and the Basilica showcase Roman public architecture.
The city’s daily life comes alive in the grand houses like the House of the Faun and House of the Vettii, with their preserved frescoes and mosaics. The House of the Tragic Poet, though smaller, is famous for its “Cave Canem” (Beware of Dog) mosaic at the entrance.
The city’s entertainment district centers around the Large Theater and the Amphitheater, which could hold up to 20,000 spectators. Nearby, the Small Theater (Odeon) hosted musical performances and poetry readings.
The thermal baths – Stabian, Forum, and Central – reveal Roman bathing customs, with their changing rooms, cold and hot pools, and underground heating systems.
Pompeii’s commerce is evident in the many thermopolia (ancient fast-food restaurants), the Macellum (food market), and the fullonica (laundry) of Stephanus. The Villa of the Mysteries, just outside the city walls, features remarkable frescoes depicting mysterious ritual ceremonies.
The plaster casts of Vesuvius’s victims in their final moments provide a poignant reminder of the catastrophe, while the Garden of the Fugitives shows how citizens tried to escape.
Best visited early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. A thorough visit requires 4-5 hours. Guided tours available at entrance.
WINERY
Let me take you on a journey through the unique wine experience near Pompeii, where Mount Vesuvius’s volcanic landscape creates exceptional wines. The region’s most celebrated wine, Lacryma Christi (meaning “Tears of Christ”), tells a story of tradition dating back centuries.
Visiting a local winery like offers an immersive experience with breathtaking views of Vesuvius. As you walk through the vineyards, expert guides explain how the volcanic soil enriches the grapes with distinct minerals, creating wines found nowhere else in the world.
In the ancient cellars, you’ll discover traditional wine-making methods passed down through generations. The tasting experience typically features both red and white Lacryma Christi, alongside local varieties like the crisp white Caprettone and the robust red Piedirosso. Each wine is paired with regional specialties – think bruschetta topped with local tomatoes, aged cheeses from nearby farms, and cured meats that complement the wines perfectly.
Many wineries offer a traditional lunch option where you can enjoy authentic Campanian dishes paired with different wines. Picture yourself dining on pasta with fresh tomatoes or locally-raised meat while overlooking the vineyard rows with Vesuvius in the background.
These tours typically last 2-3 hours and include transportation from Pompeii’s archaeological site. Spring and fall (April-October) offer the best visiting conditions, when the weather is pleasant and the vines are either budding or heavy with grapes. Remember to book in advance, as these intimate wine experiences are quite popular.
The combination of volcanic terroir, centuries-old traditions, and stunning views makes this wine experience uniquely memorable – a perfect complement to your Pompeii visit.