Facts About Pompeii: Visiting Mount Vesuvius and The Ruins and Bodies of Pompeii
The Forum of Pompeii showing Pompeii Ruins and Picturesque Sky.
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How Accessible Are The Ruins of Pompeii?
Full disclosure, of all the places I’ve visited in my world travels, Pompeii is hands down the most difficult to navigate. By the end of my day in Pompeii, I was literally in tears, overwhelmed, lost, and in tremendous pain. The archaeological site covers 170 acres of largely uneven ground, stairs, cobblestone, and dirt. The signage is sparse and entirely in Italian. There is a downloadable app offering a Pompeii audio guide to help visitors through the ruins, but I had trouble getting it to work and was largely left to my own poor sense of direction. It’s very easy to get lost inside the site and difficult to find anyone to help.
This is not meant to discourage disabled travelers from visiting Pompeii entirely. But I do want you to learn from my mistakes. First and foremost, I highly recommend having a tour guide when you visit the ruins at Pompeii. It will not only help you understand the history and details of the grounds but save you a ton of time and spare you physical pain. Private guided Pompeii tours start at 2 hours, but you can find guided tours that last up to 4 hours.
Word of warning, there aren’t many places to sit once you pass the entrance to Pompeii, so if you are an ambulatory wheelchair user who may have trouble being on your feet for long periods of time, I would recommend using a wheelchair for your Pompeii visit.
When I visited I relied on my cane and braces, but due to the fact that I became repeatedly lost, was experiencing a high level of pain, had issues finding restrooms that weren’t at the top of a flight of stairs, and couldn't find many of the major sites I had come to see, it took me almost 8 hours to see Pompeii. I definitely paid for this dearly the next day. In retrospect, I wish I joined a group tour of Pompeii to avoid a lot of this hassle.
Pompeii Archeological Site - Visitare Pompei, Italy
Wheelchair Accessible Pompeii Tours aka “Pompeii per Tutti”
Disabled Access Travel offers wheelchair-accessible Pompeii tours from Naples and Rome. The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and follows the accessible path throughout the ruins. This path makes use of ramps and elevators to cross various architectural barriers. The tour also uses a private adapted vehicle for pick up and drop off at your accommodation or cruise port. Which, if you’re starting in Naples, make sure you see visit Naples and the Amalfi Coast before heading to Pompeii.
There’s also this fantastic Skip-The-Line Wheelchair Accessible of Pompeii Including All the Highlights.
While most tours leave from Naples or Sorrento it is possible for visitors to make a day trip from Rome to Pompeii. Most day trips from Rome to Pompeii will require you to arrange your own transportation. But the trains are wheelchair accessible and fairly easy to navigate. However, it does require you to change trains in Naples. I made the Rome to Pompeii day trip and getting there and back was honestly the easiest part of the day. Seriously, get that guided tour, Pompeii will be infinitely easier to navigate.
Rainbow over the vineyards of Pompeii
Pompeii: Pre Eruption of Mt. Vesuvius
Founded by the Oscans, Pompeii came to be in the 8th Century BC. It was known as an exporter of olive oil and wine. After the Samite Wars in 80 BC, Pompeii shifted to Roman control. During this period of Roman rule, Pompeii became one of the most popular resort towns for the Roman aristocracy. After a large earthquake in 62 AD, the city suffered widespread damage. In the middle of rebuilding efforts launched by Emperor Nero, Mount Vesuvius erupted decimating the city of Pompeii on August 24 79 AD. This was one of the deadliest eruptions in European history. The cloud of gases released by Vesuvius was shot 21 miles high and ejected molten rock and hot ash at 1.5 million tons per second.
The volcanic eruption released 100,000 times the thermal energy of both atomic bombs at Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It was so strong, it blew the volcano open into two craters. The eruption destroyed Pompeii, Herculaneum, and several other Roman cities, burying them in volcanic ash and preserving the ancient Roman city of Pompeii for centuries. An estimated 11,000 people were killed in the eruption.
The Excavation of Pompeii
Excavation in Pompeii began in the 18th century under King of Naples Charles III of Bourbon. Unfortunately, he was more interested in gaining publicity for his dig than actually digging with any scientific care or concern for the artifacts below. In the 19th century excavation increased, this time using detailed record-keeping, plaster casting, and actual scientific methodologies.
In recent years excavation has been halted in Pompeii Italy and efforts have become focused on restoring existing structures that have already been unearthed. As archeologists revealed more and more of these ancient cities, Pompeii became a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Statue in Pompeii’s Forum
10 Most Popular Attractions in Pompeii:
If you still opt not to get a guide to Pompeii, here are the must-see sites:
1. AMPHITHEATER IN POMPEII
Amphitheatre Pompeii
Originally used for sporting events and gladiator battles, this space could hold 20,000 spectators.
In 1972 the band Pink Floyd filmed their concert documentary film, Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii in this space. There are multiple images, Pompei fun facts, and information detailing the history of the amphitheater just outside the entrance.
2. LARGE THEATER AND ODEON (SMALL THEATER)
The Small Theater in Pompeii
Pompeii has two ancient theaters. The large amphitheater was used for Greek and Roman plays, and the smaller theater was used for musical performances and poetry readings. When speaking from the center of the small theater you can hear your own voice amplified as though you’re speaking into a microphone due to the incredible acoustics.
3. FORUMS IN POMPEII
Forum Pompeii
Looking at the Forum Pompeii really comes alive. This giant square is home to massive arches, old markets, temples, the mensa ponderaria (weights and measures) Bascilica Pompeii, multiple statues, and various public buildings. The forum of Pompeii was a hub of activity in the ancient city of Pompeii. It was the location of religious, civic, and commercial activity. It’s also one of the prettiest and most accessible parts of Pompeii. If you’re looking to get photos, the Forum at Pompeii is the best area to capture beautiful images of this former city.
4. BASILICA POMPEII
Basilica in the Pompeii Forum
Since we’re talking about the Forum of Pompeii, it’s important to note one of its most famous buildings, the Basilica. Back in Roman times, the Basilica was an integral part of any city. The Basilica in Pompeii was no exception. It functioned as the courthouse and building where people drew up commercial contracts. It’s pretty impressive to see so much of it is preserved after being covered in mountains of volcanic ash.
5. GARDEN OF FUGITIVES
Casts of Bodies, Pompeii
You don’t have to know a lot of Pompeii facts to know about the plaster casting done to preserve the bodies from Pompeii found during excavations in the 1960s and 70s. The Garden of Fugitives or Orto dei Fuggiaschi was a section of Pompeii covered in vineyards. During excavation efforts, the remains of 13 victims were unearthed. These citizens of Pompeii died trying to escape the deadly eruption. Plaster casting was used to preserve the bodies of Pompeii. It’s an incredibly moving site. I can’t even imagine the terror they faced fleeing for their lives.
This area was the most difficult for me to find and definitely made me wish I had sprung for the Pompeii guided tour. Many of the artifacts from Pompeii have been moved to museums in nearby Naples which exhibit Pompeii ruins.
6. PRAEDIA OF GIULIA FELICE
Praedia di Giulia Felice Pompeia Italia
The Preadia di Giulia Felice was one of the first houses of Pompeii discovered during excavations. Archeologists actually discovered this property around a series of thermal baths at Pompeii. Painted on the side of the building was the name “Giulia Felice”, along with signage proclaiming the property was for rent. It’s a really beautiful and lush section amongst the rows of tan houses in Pompeii.
7. HOUSE OF FAUN
House of Faun, Pompeii Italy
The House of Faun was one of the largest homes in Pompeii. At nearly 33,000 square feet it’s a sprawling estate filled with statues, mosaics, and frescos. A lot of this art has been moved to the National Archeological Museum in Naples so it can be kept safe from the elements. But you can still appreciate the grandeur of the space and several of the mosaics and statues.
8. BROTHEL OF POMPEII - LUPANAR
Lupanare - Pompeii’s Brothel
The city’s brothel, Lupanare, is another can’t miss site on your visit to Pompeii. Literally. There are a series of phallic symbols and paintings on the exteriors of buildings and flagstones leading to the brothel. Even without a guided tour, I was able to find it. Just follow the phalluses straight to the brothel, and ding dong, you’re there! Lupenare is filled with erotic frescos depicting the menu services once offered.
9. VILLA OF THE MYSTERIES
Villa of Mysteries - Pompeii, Italy
The Villa of Mysteries is said to have belonged to the powerful Istacidii family during the reign of Augustus. The villa overlooks the sea just outside the city walls of Pompeii. The Villa takes it’s name from the Hall of Mysteries, a hall which was decorated with cycle of paintings depicting a Dionysian ritual.
10. SANCTUARY OF VENUS
Full disclosure, I wasn’t able to find this area on my trip. The Sanctuary of Venus is on the grounds of a temple and a sacred site dedicated to Venus. The goddess was said to be the protector of the city. But we all know how that worked out…
One of the many difficult to navigate areas at the Pompeii Ruins
Pompeii Ticket and Park Details
If you opt to visit the park on your own here are a few facts you’ll need to know about operating hours, parking, and pricing.
Pompeii Hours of Operation: Pompeii opening hours are between 9 AM - 7 PM Tuesday thru Sunday. The last entrance of the day is at 5:30 PM. The area is closed to the public on Mondays.
Best Time to Visit Pompeii: Mornings are the best time to visit Pompeii. If you arrive when the gates open you’ll be able to avoid the larger crowds. The best season to visit Pompeii is November thru March, which is the off-season.
Pompeii Parking: If you choose to drive to Pompeii there are several car parks surrounding the archeological site. Some of the lots offer free parking if you eat at their restaurant. Restaurant Vesuvius is a good option for this and is a quick 5-minute walk from the ruins. (no hills) Most other lots cost 10 Euros for the day.
Wheelchair Accessible Entrances to Pompeii: The main entrance to Pompeii is NOT wheelchair accessible. Porta Anfiteatro is the most wheelchair-accessible entrance.
Pompeii Ticket Prices: The entrance fee to Pompeii is 16 Euros.
Things to do in Pompeii: If you made the trip to Pompeii you’re probably here to see the ruins and visit the volcano. There are a number of delicious restaurants and bakeries close to the ruins. I highly recommend Pasticceria De Vivo dal 1955 for some delicious pastries and coffee to start your day, and Stuzzicò by Lucius for a more substantial Italian lunch or dinner.
View of Mt Vesuvius from Pompeii Ruins
Facts About Mount Vesuvius
If you plan to visit Pompeii you may opt to add on a trip to Mount Vesuvius. A ticket to Pompeii via a tour group may not include visiting Mount Vesuvius. If you choose to visit Vesuvius on your own you may purchase a ticket and grab a shuttle up to the top. Please note, at this time there are no wheelchair-accessible tours offered to Mount Vesuvius.
Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano. It’s also overdue for another eruption.
One lesser-known fact about Mt Vesuvius is, it’s actually formed by two volcanoes, Vesuvius and Mount Somma.
The inhabitants of Pompeii had no idea they lived beneath a volcano as it hadn’t erupted for 1,800 years prior to the eruption of 79 AD.
Mt Vesuvius erupted 6 times in the 18th century, 8 times in the 19th century, and 3 times in the 20th century.
Mt Vesuvius last eruption was in 1944.
The People of Pompeii were warned of the eruption of Vesuvius by a series of earthquakes. Many inhabitants of the city chose to flee following a large eruption in 62 AD. Unfortunately, many chose to stay.
Before 79 AD there was no name for the volcano. Since residents didn’t realize it existed, it sat unnamed. After the deadly eruption, it was named for Vulcan, the Roman God of Flame and Metal Forgery.
The remains of over 1,500 people have been found at Herculaneum and Pompeii thus far. Though the total death toll remains unknown.
The eruption in 79 AD lasted for 2 days and produced debris at 1.5 million tons per second.
Mt. Vesuvius is a stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano. This type of volcano is conical in shape and formed by hardened layers of lava and tephra.
The remains of Pompeii were preserved for over 1,600 years. Pompeii is recognized by the World Monuments Fund, an organization dedicated to preserving historic architecture. The estimated cost to uncover and preserve the full site is $335 million USD.
1/3 of Pompeii remains buried by volcanic ash.
The height of Mt Vesuvius is 4,203 feet. Visitors to Mount Vesuvius National Park are able to hike Mount Vesuvius. The Sentiero Monte Vesuvio is a 2.1 mile out and back trail suitable for all skill levels. Those who choose to enjoy hiking Mt Vesuvius can also enjoy bird watching and a variety of wildflowers. The path is not suitable for wheelchairs, but visitors who choose to pass on the Mt Vesuvius hike can drive up to the crater’s rim in a wheelchair-accessible van. This is an ideal spot to capture incredible pictures of Mount Vesuvius. Hiking Vesuvius is not recommended for those with mobility issues as the path is covered in rocks and it can be difficult to find good footing.
Some delicious facts about Mount Vesuvius: the volcano has produced rich volcanic soil ideal for plant growth. Because of this, the area produces some of the most delicious produce in Italy. The area is popular for growing red grape Aglianico and white grapes Fiano and Greco do Tufo which are used in wine production. Farmers in the area also grow Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio, a tomato granted protected geographical status because of its incredible quality.
Climbing Mount Vesuvius takes about 30 minutes from base to crater. This is a steep, rocky incline and not suitable for all travelers.
Vineyards around the ruins of Pompei
Mount Vesuvius Tickets and Vesuvius Tour
Another drawback to not joining a tour group, we would have had to arrange our own transportation between the Pompeii ruins and Mount Vesuvius. After spending over 8 hours on my feet, I wasn’t physically able to push myself any longer. If we had arranged a group tour we would have had a shorter, more direct tour of the Pompeii highlights, transportation between the two attractions, and an air-conditioned bus to relax on. But my body was saying it was time to call it quits. So we scrapped our plans for a Vesuvius visit. Thankfully we hadn’t purchased tickets for Vesuvius in advance so we didn’t feel too guilty ending our trip to Pompeii, grabbing a quick dinner, and heading back to the train station to grab the next train from Pompeii to Naples on our way back to Rome.
Tickets to Vesuvius National Park cost 10 Euros. The tour takes 1 1/2 hours and includes a guide in either Italian or English. It’s important to note tickets to Vesuvius do not include any private transport company costs. Shuttles from the Ticket office to the crater cost EUR 2 roundtrip.
For those still wishing to visit Vesuvius without a group tour, there are EAV bus routes running between Pompeii and Mout Vesuvius every 50 minutes.
If you visit Vesuvius make sure to stop by the bar near the shuttle bus stop and try a class of Lacrime Cristi wine made from the delicious grapes growing on the volcano. I hear it’s spectacular.
Pompeii Campania an amusement area on our walk from the train station to the ruins of Pompeii.
How To Get To Pompeii From Rome or Naples
Where is Pompeii Located?
Pompeii is 14 miles southeast of Naples at the southeastern base of Mt Vesuvius. It’s an almost 2-hour train trip south of Rome or approximately 150 miles. For those traveling from Sorrento, Pompeii is located about 16 miles northeast of Sorrento.
Pompeii tours from Rome
Disabled Access Tours offers a day trip from Rome to Pompeii. It’s a perfect add-on to an amazing Rome itinerary. The excursion takes about 12 hours and is flexible to include stops in Positano, Ravello, Sorrento, and Amalfi. This is a private tour including an English-speaking driver and guide, door-to-door transportation, pick up from your accommodation in Rome, and adapted transportation suitable for passengers with wheelchairs.
While it is entirely possible to make the trip via train, I recommend arranging a private tour to save yourself a lot of hassle.
Pompeii Tour from Naples
Whether you’re staying in Naples or just stopping by via cruise ship, you can book this Wheelchair-Accessible Tour of Pompeii with pick-up in Naples.
Rome to Pompeii Train and Naples to Pompeii Train
To take the train to Pompeii from Rome’s Termini Station takes a little over 2 hours and involves changing trains in Naples. There is no direct route from Rome to Pompeii by rail.
Italy’s rail system is wheelchair accessible and offers assistance to all disabled passengers if you arrange it in advance.
Naples to Pompeii bus
For bus info from Naples to Pompeii, check out the Shore Excursioneer shuttle.
An adorable street dog in Pompeii
Hope You Enjoyed These Facts of Pompeii
Have you visited Pompeii? What did you think? Drop a comment below if you have any tips for visiting the ruins, Vesuvius, and/or Herculaneum.
