Discover Pompeii: Archaeology, Art and the Cult of the Virgin Mary

Pompeii combines archaeological cultural heritage, art and religious history to create a destination with many different points of entry. Families travelling here can choose between historical exhibitions, an accessible tour, remarkable buildings and an important Marian sanctuary. When looking for a holiday apartment in Pompeii, it helps to clarify your priorities in advance: Should the trip primarily explore the history of the ancient city, focus on individual works of art, or also include religious culture?

Ancient History in Exhibitions and Buildings

A good place to start is the Antiquarium. Since 25 January 2021, it has housed a permanent exhibition tracing the history of Pompeii from the Samnite period in the 4th century BC to the eruption in AD 79. This makes it possible to follow the development of the site over a long period before turning your attention to individual buildings and artefacts.

The Palestra Grande houses a permanent exhibition of casts and organic remains from Pompeii. The casts of 13 victims in the Orto dei Fuggiaschi are also visible in a protective display case. These stations appeal to visitors who are interested not only in buildings but also in the human traces of history. The accessible “Pompeii for All” route can be accessed from Piazza Anfiteatro and offers another way to structure your visit.

Individual sites also have their own distinctive features. The garden of the Casa di Octavius Quartio contains two artificial watercourses arranged at right angles to each other, with cascades and fountains. Those interested in the design of ancient gardens and the relationship between architecture and water will find here a detail that clearly differs from the exhibitions. The Villa dei Misteri has specific visiting hours: it is open from 9:15 am to 6:30 pm, with last admission at 6:15 pm. You should take these times into account when planning your day.

Experience Religious History and Art

Pompeii is shaped by more than just the ancient city. The Pontificio Santuario della Beata Vergine del Santo Rosario di Pompei was established through the efforts of Bartolo Longo, who initiated religious and social activities from the Valle di Pompei. The sanctuary is one of the most important centres of Marian devotion in Italy. The main altar features the Madonna di Pompei, a 17th-century canvas from the school of Luca Giordano.

Pompeii therefore offers a range of travel interests: You can combine the history of the ancient city with exhibitions and preserved sites, or focus on religious art and the sanctuary. Pompeii, together with Herculaneum and Oplontis, forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When choosing your accommodation, the decisive factor is therefore primarily which themes define your trip and how much time you wish to devote to the individual sights. A holiday apartment or holiday home in Pompeii can serve as accommodation for a trip that considers cultural history and religious tradition together.

More Destinations in the Surrounding Area

If you would like to continue your search beyond Pompeii, you can find more destinations here: Sant'Anastasia, Casola di Napoli, Portici, Casoria, Quarto, Gragnano, Sant'agata Sui Due Golfi and Baia.

To the higher-level travel overview: Naples.