Explore Italy's most famous and fascinating archaeological site, the once-thriving Roman city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Pompeii was completely buried in ash and pumice and hidden for centuries. Excavations have uncovered paved streets, temples, public buildings, baths, villas decorated with frescoes and mosaics, artifacts and more. Its remarkably preserved state, with moving depictions of those killed in the catastrophe, offers a vivid picture of society and daily life 2,000 years ago.