The City of Pompeii, located south of Rome, sits at the base of Mount Vesuvius.  Pompeii boasted a population of nearly 20,000 inhabitants.  It had bath houses, theaters, swimming pools and a sports arena that could seat 20,000.

In 79 A.D. Mount Vesuvius erupted over a two day period.  The city of Pompeii was covered in 6-9 feet of lava and ash, and much of the population was killed.  It wasn't until the 1700's that the city was uncovered during the excavation for a canal.  Archaeologists have carefully continued to uncover more of the city through the years.

In fact, as they were excavating, they came across cavities in the ash.  They finally concocted a plaster that they poured into the cavities, allowed to dry and then dug around.  This is what they discovered:



The first photo is of a citizen, that simply sat down and covered his face, as the ash and lava fell.  He was buried alive.  His skin and bones decayed away, over the centuries, but the cavity remained.  Likewise, the second photo is the plaster mold of a dog who was also caught in the eruption.

The site is an incredible view into the lifestyle of nearly two thousand years ago.  Many of the home's brick walls are still intact.  Visitor's can see the intricate in-laid tile floors and beautiful frescoed walls that were common in the time. 

One guide informed us that the differences in some interiors were due to the "first period" versus the "second period" of decorating.  Even then, I'm sure spouses were arguing over whether they needed a new decor. ("Oh Claudius, this place looks so B.C.!")

Water fountains could be found in nearly every city block.  The community bath house offered differing temperatures of heated baths.  Two theaters offered stage productions.  A sewer system was even in place.  

Of course, many of these innovations were lost with the decline of the Roman Empire and world culture entered the Dark Ages.  Think of it.  It would be more than 1,800 years before society would once again consider heated baths and running water to be a normal convenience. 

The Roman Empire is testament to the idea that we can't take our knowledge base and accomplishments for granted.  It's only through diligent effort that, we as individuals, and as a society can build upon our successes of the past to preserve and enhance them.

If you know someone going to Rome, strongly encourage them to take a day to visit Pompeii.  It's rare that a two hour journey can transport you, so completely, two thousand years back in time.