Archaeological Areas of Pompei,
Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
‘When Vesuvius erupted on 24 August AD 79, it
engulfed the two flourishing Roman towns of
Pompei and Herculaneum, as well as the many
wealthy villas in the area. These have been
progressively excavated and made accessible to
the public since the mid-18th century. The vast
expanse of the commercial town of Pompei
contrasts with the smaller but better-preserved
remains of the holiday resort of Herculaneum, while
the superb wall paintings of the Villa Oplontis at
Torre Annunziata give a vivid impression of the
opulent lifestyle enjoyed by the wealthier citizens of
the Early Roman Empire.’ – World Heritage
Convention
Ruins of Pompei with the Vesuvius