NAT GEO - Dive Into Ancient Roman Life

OVERVIEW

Explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites that the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. destroyed and buried in volcanic ash and pumice and come away with a deeper understanding of ancient Roman life. In the Pompeii suburb of Oplontis, you will explore luxurious villas now beneath street level that feature some of the best-preserved frescoes and mosaics of that time period. National Geographic funded the excavation of the villas and an expert archaeologist will describe their historical and cultural importance in fascinating detail. The ruins in nearby Pompeii will reveal other sides of ancient life as it was a bigger city with a forum, theater, shops and bath house. While walking along the cobblestone streets, you can expect to see the once lavish and large House of Faun and Casa della Regina Carolina and the Thermopolium, a retail snack bar of sorts that could be likened to ancient fast-food restaurant.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Pompeii and Oplontis, two sites that Mt. Vesuvius’ eruption destroyed in 79 A.D.
• Be awed by the frescoes and murals that adorn the villas of the wealthy in Oplontis.
• Gain insight into National Geographic’s role funding the excavations.
• See a broader range of excavated sites in Pompeii, including a forum and bath house.
• Recognize the reasons UNESCO declared Pompeii and Oplontis World Heritage sites.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.