Weekend In Pompeii

 During my visit to Rome this past Spring, we visited Pompeii, near Naples in Italy. We joined a day guided tour from Rome which gave us an insight of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii.  As you know, the whole city was tragically destroyed by the eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79 AD. The locals were going about their normal activities and life when suddenly the skies turned so dark during the day. After a strong earthquake, the volcano, Mt Vesuvius erupted starting with a flow of lava, then balls of fire towards the city and then an atmospheric gas that killed people and destroyed the city.  As we walked around, our local tour guide described to us the normal lives of the locals during that time. We visited their outdoor theatre, their homes, parks, a rich family's Villa which was still intact and even their ancient Roman sex brothel. Even though there was destruction all over and loss of life, I saw some of their art preserved, their jars used for storing wine and water, how they ate and cooked and their Baths. There were even some bodies hardened by the lava ashes over the centuries on display. Still towering over the city is the majestic and powerful Mt Vesuvius, still full of life for sure. Visiting Pompeii is definitely worth a visit because it shows the fall of man but also shows the triumph of man over natural disasters as we have the capability to rebuild which is evident on the towns outside of Pompeii. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 As you have read in the News, there was a major earthquake that struck Central Italy on 24 August. Towns like, Amatrice, were destroyed and many lost their lives. You can help through a donation to your local Red Cross or check out this blog for Earthquake Relief.