Site de Pompeii

Photo of the columns in the Forum of Pompeii

Ruins of the columns of the ancient Forum of Pompeii, with Mount Vesuvius in the background

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Here we are at the archaeological site of Pompeii, surrounded by the remains of the ancient forum. The stone columns lining this former public square still bear witness to the importance of this place in the life of the Roman city. In the distance, Mount Vesuvius dominates the landscape.
Standing here under the bright sunshine and a perfectly blue sky, it is hard to imagine the tragedy that unfolded in 79 AD. The mountain looks peaceful, almost harmless, far removed from the image one might have of the volcano that buried the city beneath its ashes. This contrast between the beauty of the landscape and the dramatic history of Pompeii makes the visit particularly moving.