THE POMPEIIAN EXCAVATION
Altar and Columns
in the Pompeiian Forum.
Visiting the Archeological Site
Many of the structures such as homes, the amphitheatres,
the huge stadium and streets are in remarkably good condition.
Pompeii can be reached by car or bus on a main highway south of
Naples. You enter on foot and can walk around to see whatever
you like. There are maps available to guide you and people are
working inside the city walls. Click here for
a street view.
One of the most interesting aspects of Pompeii is
that the archeological digging is being done right in front of
you. You can see exactly what the people working are doing. College
students come here to learn how to become archaeologists. Some
fine examples of what archaeologists find are in the Museum of
Classical Archaeology in Cambridge, England. To see some great
work, click here.
One of the first things you notice is that a covering
is raised above the work area because warm tropical climate and
bright sun make working hot work! Shade is an important consideration.
Secondly, there is scaffolding to hold up structural
parts and make them safe while they are being unearthed.
The final thing you notice is the clouds of volcanic
dust. This is dirty work. Those digging are covered with fine
dust as they slowly work to bring the city back to life. Because
it is dry, warm and rocky, there are many small lizards and some
scorpions that one must watch out for.
The best part of the job is finding something new and wonderful that can help all of us know more about this ancient city and its remarkable people.
Although much of what is found goes to the National
Museum in nearby Naples, there is an open-air "museum"
of sorts that contains many different kinds of articles that have
been discovered. This is where the body casts can be viewed. The
area also contains a large array of vessels used in the city.
This museum seems a little dusty and old-fashioned.
The archeologists working here at the dig enjoy their work and
are happy to be at Pompeii rediscovering the past.
There are many artifacts at the nearby National Museum
in Naples, but at this time there is no link on the internet.
Many museums are coming online, so watch for a link.
CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO THE POMPEII HOMEPAGE.
CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO THE GREEKCIV HOMEPAGE.