Pompeii

Pompeii’s beauty was ironically preserved by a destructive event – the eruption of Mount Vesuvius 2,000 years ago.

This ancient city is astonishing; the beauty, the history, the impressive functional design. A complex water system still remains (gutters carved out of stone for miles). Wow.

We walked along ancient, cobblestone streets to the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater (and the first made of stone instead of wood) where gladiators once entertained audiences with violent, deadly acts.

We somehow ventured ‘off course’ a bit (a sincere accident), blazing our own trail far from the main roads where we were able to experience the beautiful detail of the ruins up close and personal.

It was a beautiful, scenic walk to the Villa of Mysteries, high in the hills of Pompeii. This well preserved Roman villa is home to the most colorful art found in the ruins. Amazing!

Pompeii is an easy stop on the way from Naples to the Amalfi coast. There’s no need to stay for the night – it’s a perfect day trip from Naples or Sorrento. The scenery surrounding the ancient city is breathtaking; mountains, vineyards, and ruins overlooking the sea. The history of Pompeii tells a tragic story, but one with a beautiful ending.