The violent eruption of Vesuvius killed thousands of people, destroying a vibrant society that was rich in culture and art. Pompeii, teeming with trade because of her port, was a prosperous and busy town of the early Roman Empire. Herculaneum, smaller and more exclusive, was a resort home to many of the wealthiest men and women of Rome. Both of these towns, along with their surrounding suburbs, contained immense wealth and lavish artworks.  The fabulous room-size frescoes, mosaics, and furnishings included in “Pompeii: Tales from an Eruption” tell a story of privilege, while the breathtakingly beautiful gold and silver jewelry speaks of the exquisite taste of many of the victims. Fine sculpture, table silver, and gold coins hint at the luxurious lifestyle enjoyed by many.

As the eruption worsened, many of the victims fled, carrying with them their most precious possessions. The prolonged nature of the eruption enabled many people to choose those things that mattered most to them, carrying them as they escaped. Struck down by falling debris, asphyxiated by ash and noxious gases, or overcome by surge clouds, the bodies of many of Vesuvius’ victims were covered by ash and remained buried in the ground until excavations of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries unearthed them. Casts made from these remains show us the people of Pompeii, caught by disaster and unable to escape.

Pompeii
Herculaneum
Suburbs