Pompeii
Pompeii is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Italy. The ancient city was covered with a meter-high layer of ash when Vesuvius erupted in 79, protecting the buildings from decay. Therefore, the city has been well preserved up to modern times. It was rediscovered in 1748.
Location and accessibility
Pompeii is located in the Campania region on the Gulf of Naples and belongs to the municipality of the modern city of Pompei. The excavation site has two entrances and can be reached via the A3 motorway or by train. Many tour operators have trips to Italy that also include trips to Pompeii. A tour of the city is often part of study trips.
Attractions
The Capitol is located at the forum, the former meeting place. It is a temple dedicated to the most important Roman gods Jupiter, Juno and Minerva. The Macellum in the northeast corner of the forum was the food market hall of ancient Pompeii. Also worth seeing are the Eumachia building, the basilica and the Temple of Apollo.
Among the private houses, the villas in the northwest of Pompeii stand out in particular. The Casa dei Vettii was built by two wealthy freedmen who had the interior decorated with mythological wall paintings and frescoes. The Casa del Fauno was named after the statue that is located in the water basin of the courtyard. This villa is considered to be one of the most beautiful antique houses. The villa dei misterii with its beautiful paintings served as a place of worship for the Dionysus cult, although this was forbidden in Italy at the time.
The amphitheater in the southeast of the city offered space for 20,000 spectators. It is one of the oldest amphitheaters. As shown by graffiti, the events held there were very popular.
The houses of ordinary people, which often included a craft business or a shop, are also of interest. A brothel can also be visited. These buildings give a vivid insight into the life of the residents at that time.
Vesuvius
Vesuvius, 1281 meters high, is located on the Gulf of Naples. The volcano is located in the Campania region, which belongs to Italy. The diameter of its crater is around 500 meters.
The meaning of Vesuvius
Vesuvius is one of the most famous and at the same time one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world. Nevertheless, the area around Vesuvius is surprisingly densely populated. The cities of Naples and Pompeii are very close to this volcano. Only nine kilometers separate the city of Naples from Vesuvius.
Visiting the volcano
Vesuvius is a well-known excursion destination because it offers its visitors a fascinating view over the Gulf of Naples. It is advisable to choose a day for the ascent to Vesuvius when there is a clear view. This gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy an impressive view. Even the road that leads to Vesuvius offers many beautiful views.
The ascent to Vesuvius
There is a parking lot at a height of one thousand meters. It is the starting point for the footpath, which takes about twenty minutes on foot. It is a gravel road. On the highest point of Vesuvius, vacationers can take a look into the crater of this volcano. Guided tours are offered here. These can be very interesting for hikers who are traveling on private trips. But a tour also offers a lot of information for participants in study trips. It is chargeable and takes about 90 minutes.
Practical tips for the hike to Vesuvius
It’s cooler on the volcano than on the Gulf of Naples. Therefore, a jacket should be taken with you for the trip to Vesuvius. Sturdy shoes, a sun hat and mineral water are also recommended. Sunscreen can also be very helpful on the go.
An excursion to Vesuvius is a very special experience for many people, which they will probably remember for a long time.
Amalfitana
The Amalfitana in southern Italy is one of the most famous coastal roads in Europe. The SS 163 panoramic road, characterized by numerous curves, connects the two small towns of Positano and Amalfi on the Sorrento peninsula. In addition to the breathtaking view, the Amalfitana always offers a very special thrill. After all, the narrow road with its numerous serpentines is located 100 meters above the sea directly on an almost vertically sloping steep slope.
Unique view
It happens again and again that the road becomes very narrow – especially for buses. Due to the special road layout and the large volume of traffic, you should plan a lot of time for the route. But you will be compensated with a unique view. Along the Amalfitana there are bays and terraces at regular intervals, which are frequented by numerous drivers to take photos. A visit to the region with a drive over the Amalfitana is particularly recommended in late spring or autumn. After all, during this time you can also enjoy extensive lemon groves and vineyards that are right on the road. The Amalfitana is not just a sight.
