What to see in Pompeii, Italy
Pompeii offers 3.5 million visitors each year the ability to walk into the world of the ancient Romans. The vast archeological park touts streets, villas, bath houses, gardens, shops, and more. So what to see and not feel overwhelmed?
Here are my picks of top ten sights to see in Pompeii.
The Forum: Walk from the ticket entrance through the Sea Gate and you reach the Forum. Mt. Vesuvius is in the distance. In 79A.D. this active volcano spewed pumice into the sky and created the frozen city we see today. The Forum is surrounded by public buildings, including the Temple of Jupiter, the Temple of Apollo, a storehouse with pottery and plaster casts, as well as a market where the woolen cloth guilds once sold their wares. The Temple of Apollo is the oldest in Pompeii, dating back to the 6th century B.C. The largest edifice in the Forum, the Building of Eumachia, was sponsored by a wealthy female priestess of Venus.
Via dell’Abbondanza: Follow this street to see the dolia (terracotta receptacles) in shops that sold all manner of food. The citizens of Pompeii always ate lunch outside the home. Oil lamps within the restaurants and bars here hint that they had customers all day and all night, which makes sense considering most people lived in cramped quarters, so they likely lived most of their lives either outside or in these establishments.
Via dell’Abbondanza: The liveliest street in Pompeii, the name was made up by archeologists along with every other street name in the city. We don’t actually know what the Romans called these roads. Follow this street to see the dolia (terracotta receptacles) in shops that sold all manner of food. Pompeii was most famous for its garum, or fish sauce.
The Brothel: Along a side street of Via dell’Abbondanza, the brothel has a small hallway with several bedrooms on each side. It’s believed that prostitutes could be slaves or free women. Their customers would have ranged from actors and gladiators, seamen from the port to wealthy Roman citizens. Graffiti left by customers indicate that most Pompeiians were literate, but prostitutes wouldn’t have necessarily known Latin or have known how to read and write. (Pompeii, interestingly, was a multi-lingual city with Oscan used just as often as Latin.)
The Amphitheater: At the far end of Pompeii, the earliest stone amphitheater in the ancient world could hold up to 20,000 spectators. Adjacent to it was the training space for gladiators, surrounded by porches, and a swimming pool in its center. Gladiators were often slaves or condemned criminals. A lanista or a troupe manager controlled when the gladiators performed. He also scouted for new recruits and acquired animals from distant parts of the empire. Behind the Amphitheater, the Via dei Sepolcri was lined with tombs. Marble statues of families can still be seen above their tombs along with Latin inscriptions. The priestess Eumachia’s tomb is the largest.
Garden of the Fugitives: A vast number of plaster casts lie next to these vineyards in a large glass case. Giuseppe Fiorelli, director of the Pompeii digs in the late 19th century, invented the plaster cast method. He poured liquid plaster into a cavity left in the bed of ashes by the gradual decomposition of the victim’s body. As the plaster solidified, it reproduced the body’s shape.
Via dei Sepolcri: The main road leaving Pompeii was lined with tombs. Many Pompeiians took this road as they fled the city, carrying their valuables with them. One man carried a sword, another woman carried a figurine of the goddess Fortuna. Children kept up with parents, but these people didn’t make it past this road and succumbed to the ash.
Garden of the Fugitives: A vast number of plaster casts lie in a large glass case. Giuseppe Fiorelli, director of the Pompeii digs in the late 19th century, invented the plaster cast method. He poured liquid plaster into a cavity left in the bed of ashes by the gradual decomposition of the victim’s body. As the plaster solidified, it reproduced the body’s shape.
The Forum Baths: The Forum Baths, one of three bath complexes in Pompeii, are larger than the Forum itself. Since most people didn’t have indoor plumbing, this was where they came to wash. The baths had several rooms, including a changing room (apodyterium), a room for a cold bath (frigidarium), lukewarm bath (tepidarium), and a hot bath (caladium). Across the street from the Forum bath exit you can find the charming House of the Tragic Poet, which has an impressive mosaic of a barking dog with the words Cave Canum – “Beware of Dog.”
Villa of the Mysteries: Although this villa has deep red colors, which depict Dionysian or Orphic initiation rites, recent research at La Sapienza University in Rome has revealed that many of the reds we see in Pompeii were once yellow and turned dark red as a result of exposure to hot gases during the eruption. The images lead archeologists to believe that a priestess of the Dionysian cult owned this villa.
House of the Faun: The largest of all the villas and the most famous, this wealthy dwelling had airy rooms and some indications of indoor baths, toilets, and kitchen areas. Visitors can see an accurate copy of a 2nd century B.C. dancing faun in bronze. Most impressive is the mosaic – using somewhere between 1.5 and 5 million tiny stones or tesserae – depicting a battle between Alexander the Great and the Persian King Darius. This house is also the oldest, built in the late 2nd century B.C.
Learn more about the Campania region of Italy. Stop by Barbara Zaragoza’s site where you can find out all about the ancient Roman ruins of the region.
3 Places to See on Your First Trip to Italy
Wondering what to see on your first trip to Italy? I recommend these three wonderful places: Venice, Florence and Rome. Those cities are the three biggest tourist destinations in Italy, and for good reason.
If all you have are seven days, I would suggest two days in Venice, two in Florence and three in Rome. In Florence you can book a Tuscany bus tour which will take you to Siena, San Gimignano and Pisa in a day. This is a great way for you to check out the Tuscan countryside (Florence is situated in Tuscany).
It is easy and fast to travel by train between Venice, Florence and Rome. You can make Rome your first destination, from there you take the train to Florence and spend your last two days in Venice. You will be spending only two hours maximum on board a train on any leg of your journey. You can also make Venice your first stop, then Florence, ending with Rome.
Italy train tickets can be booked and paid for in advance online. Do an online search for “trenitalia.com” and you will be taken to the official train website. Here’s a tip if you’re booking your train ticket online: choose the principal train station for each city, not one of the outlying stations. So in Florence you’ll be looking for “Florence Centrale” and in Rome it’s “Rome Termini”.
Get a B and B or a hotel near the train station Florence so you can walk from the train station to your accommodation (this is only recommended if you are not taking along a lot of luggage). If you want to look up recommendations for bed and breakfast accommodations and hotels, TripAdviser is a good place to do your research. If you’re thinking twice about spending two days of your travel time in Venice, don’t. Venice is a beautiful city that only a true-blue spoilsport can’t admire.
Go here for more tips on places to visit in Italy, including Venice, Florence and Rome on a budget.
International Italian Banners And Flagpoles
The Italian flag is flown from Italian flagpoles throughout Europe. This beautiful tricolor resembles certain other national flags. This national standard was adopted back in 1948, shortly after the Second World War. The three vertical stripes have the same width, but display different colors. The vertical stripe on the left displays the color green, the one in the middle is white, and the vertical stripe on the right is red.
Unfortunately, Italy was hit hard by the world-wide recession. This country is dealing with the effects of debt, and other financial problems. Different rating companies have given a negative outlook on the Italian national debt. The latter means that another downgrade of the country’s debt rating could be imminent. The Italian government has taken measures to save more than 100 billion Euros!
I am sure you have heard of or a familiar with of Rome, Italy’s capital. This city was the political center when the Roman Empire was still organized. Following the end of the Roman Empire, Italy was divided into a number of different kingdoms, but was again unified in the 19th century. Today’s Italy is a democratic republic, like most other countries in Europe.
The Italian tricolor came forth from the flags used in the new republics in northern Italy from 1796 and onwards. Green is said to have been Napoleon’s favorite color, or the local militia uniforms might have inspired it. The first vertical arrangement was used long before ’48
Ever since ’06 the president of Italy has been Giorgio Napolitano. He is the head of the state. An Italian president is elected for a period of seven years, like previous presidents of Italy. It is the president who selects the prime minister as well as the cabinet. Berlusconi was such for a few years till November of last year.
Italian flags are available fore sale here in the United States of America, in different materials and sizes. When selecting the proper flag materials, it is important to know where the flag will be flown, in terms of location. Weather conditions and sunlight are important factors to take into consideration when selecting the material of a flag. A flag made from lower grades of the polyester material may simply not work if you are seeking more of a durable flag.
Fascinating national flags for purchase include Italy flags, and the flag of Germany.
Traveling In Italy Is An Experience To Remember
Traveling in Italy can be a very exciting and entertaining trip to take. The country of Italy is very romantic, beautiful, and historical as well. The people there live vibrant lifestyles and the country has a full and interesting history.
The best kind of European experiences can be found in Italy because it is both modern and ancient at the same time. People who love art and history can come here and wallow in their perspective loves. Tourists come here and can almost feel and see how the people lived their lives in the time of the Roman Empire, even in the bigger cities. The Renaissance brought many artistic artifacts and the spirit of that era is quite special. Both of these things can still be seen and felt in this land.
If you are dreaming a visit to this fascinating land, take full advantage of the opportunity. You need to travel with a plan. First decide on the best time. June to September is tourist trap time. Everything including airfare to accommodation are expensive in high season. Your trip should fall outside of this time. Prices sound a lot better then.
April is early springtime in Italy. The already beautiful country takes on an even more cheerful and kinder appearance as the flowers and trees start to blossom. The weather is mild
Travel insurance is always a must as bad things do happen. Always be prepared. If you travel with your family, you may not even consider being without it. Make sure you know where your passport is and that it is valid.
You will find some reasonably priced hotels in Rome and other cities in off season especially if you stay in the outskirts. If you are on a tight budget, don’t treat yourself the luxury of a good hotel or classy restaurant. You are there for a visit not to stay. Save as much as you can because you will want to shop. Italian food is not famous for nothing. Buy it from stores or food courts.
Many people like to look at the largest Catholic Church in the world, which is in Vatican City called St. Peter’s Basilica. Some other popular visit sites in Rome are the Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.These are only a few. There are many more.
When you think of Venice, you think of rides in gondolas on canals. This old city has so much more to offer. It boasts a very intricate architecture, making a visit there an experience to remember.
Italy has more tourist cities such as Pisa, Pompeii, Milan, and Herculaneum. Each city has its own unique reason as to why people visit them. For those who would rather stay small town, Cinque Terre is made up of five smaller towns located on the northwestern coat.
Before you leave, Search the Internet. Learn about the country. Before you go traveling in Italy, have your schedule firmly in your mind and in your pocket. A practical tip is to make sure you have enough Euros when you get on the plane. There are currency exchanges all over, but usually you can’t find something when you need it most. Save yourself hours of walking trying to find a place where you can change your money
Eric Simmons is a cycling enthusiast who helps others find out about bike tours italy make sure you go to http://www.italybiketours.net/index.html.
Key Info About Sightseeing In Venice
On the coast of the Adriatic sea in the north west of Italy lies a small city called Venice that has a population of 100,000.
In spite of its small size, Venice is among the foremost tourist destinations in Italy receiving thousands of tourists from all over the globe who come to see the unique watercourses that form the Town of Venice. Below we’ve mentioned just a few of the amusing things for visitors to do in Venice.
The city interestingly does not have roads but only canals that run through with several tributaries. The Grand Canal is the major water way that runs through the centre of Venice and hence the only way to travel around the town is by boat. The Grand Canal is of 4 km in length and 40 meters to 100 meters in width.
Taking a comfortable gondola ride along the Grand Canal in Venice is not only a great way to relax but also helps you to take in the wonderful architecture of Venice which spans more than six centuries and gives you an idea of the richness of the history of Venice. Gothic, baroque and renaissance architecture are all represented among the establishments of Venice.
Italy is the centre of opera music and Venice is said to house several of the opera houses. There were performances of world class opera artists in the Venice Opera House. It was because of a great fire that there was a halt in the opera performances in the house. Performances resumed only recently.
Guided tour centres in Venice come with help for the travellers from across the world to have a view of the Venice opera house for a fee of 7 Euros. As they do not include in their program a trip to the Venice opera house in each and every trip, visitors are advised to reserve their place in advance in case they are particular to have a look at the opera house.
This building in Venice houses one of the great art collections in the entire city, and contains some pieces of art believed to be among the most valuable in the world. The actual building dates back to the 14th century and was originally used by monks of the Franciscan Order; however, since that time it has had various uses.
The Chiesa di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari in Venice has a particularly wide-ranging collection of Italian art from the Gothic period, although the artistic highlight of a visit to this art collection in Venice is the assumption which depicts the Virgin Mary and the Angel Gabrielle.
The tomb of Titian, who was one of the most famous artists to have ever come out from Venice, is also located in this building.
There are many fascinating things to do in Pisa. If you are going on holiday to Italy and looking for things to do in Venice click the links.
If You Want to Avail Cheap Flights to Rome…
Travel to Europe with a bang with cheap flights to Rome. You will find that cheap flights to Rome are possible once you know just where to look. Travel expenses can be high but once you know where to look you will find that getting cheap travel to Rome is entirely possible.
A lot of cheap flights to Rome do the rounds so you won’t find any difficulty to Rome. You can get cheap flights to Rome by going off season – that is of you are willing. You can also try to get budget flights to avail cheaper rates. You can get 20 to 60 percent off the regular rates if you book off season compared to the prices that you will find in peak seasons.
You can also explore tour operator sites where you can get extra information and tips to the lowest prices on the internet. You might want to visit TravelZoo and Expendia. They post the best prices on the internet on rates such as car rentals, airline rates and cruises. You might also find accommodations here.
If you are travelling in groups, you might find that they give off more discounts and that you can save a lot. Also they offer discounts for senior citizens and students so if there is one in your group you might want to take those offers up.
Aside from cheap flights you will find that cheap travel to Rome is possible with the many sights that you can enjoy for free. There are also locations which you can visit without paying much. Accommodations will also cost less if booked in advance or you can research on affordable places to stay while in Rome.
With cheap flights to Rome you will find that you can travel to Rome without making a large dent on your savings and you can also experience what Rome has to offer to you.
Harvin Gulfill is writing about Billig flyrejser. Do also read more about Billige fly til Rom.
Gluten Free Italian Food – Is it Possible?
Most Americans hear the word Italy and immediately think of pizza and pasta. While these foods are enjoyed in Italy, there are many other starches traditionally consumed in Italian cooking. Many of these foods are acceptable ideas for living gluten free, either as is or with minimal adaptations.
Eating polenta, cooked cornmeal, is a great option. Although in some parts of Italy you may find restaurants who include wheat in the preparation of polenta, most areas don’t use it. So you are safe most of the time with Polenta, but just like any foods you eat when living a gluten free life, make sure you check the ingredients and ask the service staff at the restaurant.
Rice is another option for eating gluten free Italian foods. Risotto is the most common Italian rice dish. Arborio and Carnaroli are two rices most commonly used to prepare risotto. Seafood can be added to risotto giving it a main course preparation. Lobster risotto is one of my favorites, served creamy and rich this dish is prepared by some of the top chefs in the world. Desert can also be had with rice by adding a little honey, ginger and rasins.
Potatoes are another New World food that became very popular in Italian cooking. The most well known use of these in Italian food is the dumpling known as gnocchi. Traditionally, these are made from a number of different ingredients, so it is important to find out what is in them before you eat these. Potato gnocchi often have a small amount of flour in them, but there are many recipes for gluten free gnocchi on the Internet. Potatoes are also enjoyed roasted with olive oil and rosemary or added to pizza in place of cheese!
Don’t miss out on dessert when cooking or eating Italian food. Some desserts need to be checked that they weren’t prepared with wheat crusts, but you can find gluten free options. A chocolate or orange sponge cake is a great option is baked with polenta instead of wheat flour. Of course, you can’t forget about the Italian sweet ice cream, Gelato. Gelato is typically gluten free but as always check your labels to be certain.
You might think that living gluten free in Italy would be impossible, but there are several alternatives. Just ask when you aren’t sure if there is an option. Most restaurants and grocery stores will have a substitute from the traditional Italian staples filled with wheat.
Choose from our list of the best gluten free pizza to prepare at home including my favorite pizza crust. Cooking Italian food doesn’t have to stop when you have a gluten allergy.
Top Pizza Restaurants in Naples, Italy
For serious pizza aficionados, Naples is the place that sets the bar for the rest of the world. Although it’s not true that pizza was invented here – it’s actually much older – it did become the dish we all known and love here. And you’ll never eat a better pizza than the first one you have in Naples. Read more
Six Great Attractions in Florence Italy
Today, I’ll give you six great attractions to see when you’re visiting Florence, Italy. When you visit Florence, bring some great walking shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking throughout the often-crowded city. Also, try to visit in the spring or winter, which are cooler months. Read more
Cheap Ways to Get to Milan
When many people imagine Milan, they think with the truth that it really is Italy’s (and, ostensibly, the world’s) fashion money. It is a place exactly where designs and designers roam the streets freely and exactly where, just strolling about, you might be bound to bump into a higher end style shoot. It is a city filled with high-priced shops like Armani, Prada and Gucci. Read more
Planning Your Trip to Venice
Built on more than 100 islands in the Venetian Lagoon, Venice (“Venezia” in Italian) is known for its unique and rich culture. Often referred to as the “City of Water,” the city is most well known for the beauty of its surrounding waterways, which are as common in Venice as streets are in New York City. Though the city tends to be associated with romantic getaways, there’s much more to Venice than romance, including historical architecture, fine dining, and cultural festivals. Here are a few tips for planning your trip to Venice. Read more
First Steps in Rome
It is true that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Taken boldly with confidence, we begin the process of achievement, signaling to the universe our intent to realize our potential. This, providence rewards greatly as long as we persist. With God taking our hand we never lose as we walk, but only learn the lessons of life. Read more