On August 24, 79 A.D. Mount Vesuvius exploded in one of the deadliest volcanic eruptions recorded in history. Ejecting molton volcanic ash and stone 12 miles into the sky. That is twice the height of Mt. Everest. Surrounding areas were covered in as much as 16 feet of ash and rock. This super heated material was as hot as 1300 degrees F. moving down the mountain at about 70 MPH and continued for 24 hours. In it’s path the city of Pompeii. It’s homes, business, livestock and families vanished.
More than 2,000 people parished. The devastation covered 200 square miles. The bustling city of Pompeii disappeared overnight. Entombed in the ash, the remains of Pompeii were perfectly preserved until they were discovered, frozen in time until 1748.
Many centuries later as the city of Pompeii is uncovered, buildings are found in tact. Business stil there. Frescos on the walls, tile on the floors, all in perfect condition. Sadly human and animal remains were also found. Some huddled together as families. Children with their parents, trying to shelter themselves from the suffocating gases and ash that filled their lungs.
Will History Repeats Itself?
Experts believe that another eruption of Mt. Vesusvius will happen. Have inhabitants of the area learned from this horrific chapter in history? Today, right now, 1000s live in what is called the Red Zone. This area has been deemed that area where you will die when Vesuvius erupts again. My Vesuvius is active today, in fact in is the only active volcano in continental Europe.
History will repeat itself and once again a modern civilization will disappear as did the city of Pompeii. For now, if you are in Naples or Sorrento it’s absolutely worth a visit. I have never seen ruins this ancient, this large and this well preserved anywhere in our travels.
It’s a day trip and whether you are coming from Sorrento or Naples on the train, there is a stop right there. Splurge and get a tour. Pompeii is enormous and it’s easy to get lost. Having someone guide you and share with you the history of the culture will bring Pompeii alive once again.
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