When we think of Rome and volcanoes, we inevitably consider the fate of the city of Pompeii. The secrets that Pompeii reveals in its ruins give us a glimpse into the life and times of some citizens during the rule of Rome.

Pompeii is located in southwest Italy near the grand city of Naples. The city of Pompeii was built around the southeast section at the foot of Mount Vesuvius near the Bay of Naples. Pompeii was a thriving city, but would meets its doom on the morning of August 24, A.D. 79.

The citizens living in Pompeii believed that the volcano was extinct. Therefore, fear of an eruption never entered their minds. In hindsight, however, history reflects that the city of Pompeii received Nature’s warning that the eruption of A.D. 79 was forthcoming. On February 5, A.D. 62, an earthquake struck the area. Buildings were damaged, but not much else.

Nearly 17 years later, the first tremors were felt that precipitated the final event. The peak at Mount Vesuvius was sent 12 miles into the sky with the eruption. The citizens attempted to leave the town while ash fell, quickly stealing the breath of life from its citizens. Over 20 feet of ash would cover the town. Approximately 2,000 men, women, and children died in the natural disaster.

It was not until the year 1594, that the first traces of old buildings were discovered. In 1710, portions of marble were uncovered at the site of Herculaneum. The discovery stimulated the passion to unearth the long buried cities of old. In the decades to follow through the 19^th century, the secrets hidden in the ash were revealed.

Treasures Discovered in the Ash

The objects discovered in the remains of Pompeii were daily items to the Roman citizen. To modern eyes, however, these beautifully created objects revealed fine craftsmanship. Artifacts discovered included oil lamps, pots, jars, household furniture and jewelry. Magnificent wall murals (wall paintings), coins, mosaics, courtyards, hallways, and streets show the modern archeologist the world that was Rome.