This tour includes English-speaking driver and Air-conditioned Mercedes at your disposal for 8 hours - Local Expert Guide for 2 hours in the ruins of Pompeii - Entrance fees of Pompeii ruins and Mt Vesuvius
Have a terrific day tour to Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius.
You’ll meet Your English-speaking driver by Your hotel or cruise ship.
Transfer to Pompeii and meeting with your English-speaking archaeological guide that will be at your disposal for 2 hours to offer you a great private tour in the ruins of Pompeii..
Pompeii had ancient origins as those of Rome: in fact, the gens Pompeia coming from Oschi, one of the first Italic populations, founded Pompeii in the VIII century B.C.. Place of passage between the north and the south, between the sea and the inland rich valleys, Pompeii soon became important road junction and sea-port and therefore coveted prey for the powerful neighbouring populations. At the end of the V century B.C. Pompeii was conquered by the Samnites, who came from the Apennine area of Isernia. In 310 BC the Samnites too were defeated by the Romans and Pompeii was Romanized. Revolted with the League Italica against Rome in 89 BC, Pompeii was conquered by Silla, and while saving itself from destruction, that city lost any remaining autonomy becoming Colonia Veneria Cornelia Pompeianorum in honour of the conqueror. In these six hundred years every invader transplanted his customs and his art in Pompeii, especially the Samnites whose remains, after four centuries of gradual Romanization, are still evident in the city.
Despite many sweeping political vicissitudes, Pompeii continued incessantly its development from a humble farming town in an important industrial and commercial node. But the first real calamity occurred with the terrible earthquake of 62 AD, reducing the city to rubble. Only the indomitable tenacity and the ability of citizens who survived soon reactivated their industrial and commercial activities and rebuilt the city partially destroyed. While they were taking action to complete and expand the temples, suddenly the second and irreparable calamity happened: Mt Vesuvius, considered a fertile mountain and therefore rich in vineyards, rustic villas and sumptuous residences, August 24 in 79 AD, shortly after noon, woke up and exploded with a power inexorably destructive.
Pliny the Younger, from Misenum, witnessed the dreadful spectacle: I can best describe its shape by likening it to a pine tree. It rose into the sky on a very long "trunk" from which spread some branches. Pliny the Younger gave a striking description also writing the vicissitudes and the tragic end of his uncle (Pliny the Elder) who, driven by scientific passion, went with his ship to observe closely the frightening phenomenon and died to rescue his friend and hearten Pomponianus. Quickly flames rose high and an immense black cloud obscured the sun.
Tons of lapilli stones and incandescent slag was poured on Pompeii. Walls and roofs collapsed and then a wave of ash mixed with water removed all forms of life. The few survivors who tried to escape towards Stabiae and Nucera (other cities of the plain) were achieved and killed by poison gas that spread everywhere. This hell lasted three days and then all was silence. A blanket of death, with five or six feet thick, buried all the area, from Herculaneum to Stabia.
After one hour of free time for lunch (not included), this private tour continues to the top of Mt Vesuvius, one of the few active volcanoes in Europe. The Vesuvius' eruption of 79 A.D. has been unique because this eruption had a profound effect on our culture and on knowledge of ancient Roman habits. Moreover no other volcano has erupted in such a densely populated area. The adventurous of You may decide to reach the top, or simply admire the fantastic view of the Bay of Naples from the terrace where You limousine stops.
After 90 minutes of free time on the top of the mountain, you'll drive back to your cruise/accommodation.
SUGGESTIONS:
Sensible clothing and shoes, camera and protective sun cream.
