I was terribly excited about seeing Pompeii today. I remember reading in history books about the ancient eruption of Mt Vesuvius and being awed how the burning ash had wiped out this Roman city and all of it’s remaining inhabitants. In fact, this tragic event now means that this city is the best archaeologically preserved city of the Roman empire, even down to the many petrified bodies of the doomed people as they ran or hide for safety.
Mt Vesuvius is seen from just about everywhere in this city.
It was a lovely “bright sun and blue sky” day in Pompeii when Todd, Cody and I arrived here by train. Todd and Cody are a father and son duo that are traveling on the ship. I met them at the train station just by chance and so once again, I manage to join forces with fellow passengers. I may have mentioned before that I really don’t mind “solo touring”, in fact sometimes I prefer it but today I was glad for their company. We were told that pickpockets are very prevalent in Italy, especially in popular tourist sites.
The ancient city of Pompeii is very large. We walked the roads and explored renovated houses and business establishments for over 5 hours. The sun was hot and the roads (above and below pictures) are very uneven and rocky.
Tracks of the Gladiators’ chariots
Suffice to say it is quite something to walk in these tracks.
Is this where the original pizza was invented?
My travel buddies at a water spigot. The preserved site of Pompeii has very nicely provided these spigots throughout the area and they blend right in. We were given a map and there were good signs throughout the area. Todd and I had also rented the audio guides but we still managed to get frequently turned around.
On all of these trips that I’ve been taking, I am always drawn to the plants, trees and flowers and I certainly wasn’t disappointed in Pompeii. My eyes feasted on the old Pine and cypress trees, the roses, the hawthorn hedges, the wild flowers, and the cultivated vegetable gardens and grape vines.
Another feast for the eyes are the frescos. This one is in the dining room of the Villa de Misteri and has many erotic scenes.
A Ram’s Head decoration on the grape press
Todd and Cody trespassing. They opened a closed gate to go down this dark stairway. Boys will be boys!!!
Ancient Pottery. I wondered how they would look in my yard in Nelson, NH
Todd and I in front of what remains of a temple. There are numerous temples spread out around Pompeii which certainly demonstrates the gods, goddesses and cults that were important to their citizens.
Vineyard. This vineyard is a reproduction of the one that existed in 79 AD. How the scientists can establish such information and details is beyond me.
The Theatre where the Gladiators fought and slaves were fed to the lions. Oh my…
Some Italian dignity. It was interesting watching this entourage pass us by with very little fanfare.
Lam and Anna, two of our servers in the Lido Restaurant. It’s always good to see some of the crew out on their free time. They make a cute couple.
I haven’t lost my blue hat yet.
Our world leaders could learn something from the Roman public figures. It was the duty of a Roman leader to provide the citizens with all the amenities required for their protection, administration, commercial needs, health and leisure.
After Pompeii we decided to go see Sorrento and get something to eat. We were hoping to get an outside table at a restaurant on the water. However, we couldn’t get to the sea – most of the prime property is taken up by expensive hotels and scruffy looking tourists are not allowed in.
Sorrento was all in bloom with flowering spring trees. The wisteria was everywhere, such a bright purple color. The houses on the cliffs were so typical Italian; large windows with small balconies and overhanging vines and flowers. I’m sure the real estate was expensive but I could certainly see myself here, except I’d have to get a whole new wardrobe. The Italians, men and women are so well-dressed.
A view from a bridge that we walked over.
Fiat pick up trucks, aren’t they cute. I bet they are good on gas.
I thought of my niece who is named Meta. I had no idea that her name had an Italian origin.
View from the train ride back to Naples.
Another well-spent day on the road….
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