Key Facts about Pompeii

About Pompeii:

• It is a preserved ancient Roman city located near modern day Naples, Italy. It lies at the southeastern base of Mount Vesuvius.
• The area was originally settled in the Bronze Ageon an escarpment at the mouth of the Sarnus (modern Sarno) River. 
• Pompeii was built on a spur formed by a prehistoric lava flow to the north of the mouth of the Sarno River. It was absorbed into the Roman Empire in 80 BCE.
• At its height, the small city had a thriving economy based on trade and agriculture. The city featured a complex municipal water system, an amphitheater, and a gymnasium.
• The city was buried in volcanic ash following the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 CE. Pompeii was rediscovered in 1748. Its excellent state of preservation gives an invaluable insight into Roman everyday life. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.