Karl Brullov, The Last Day of Pompeii (1830-33)

In just two short days the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum lay in ruins and partially covers in a thick layer of volcanic ash.  In AD 79 Mt. Vesuvius erupted and caught the citizens of both by complete surprise.  Now excavated and a remarkable sight to behold, one can envision the likes of what these cities might have been in their prime.   Bustling city-towns of trade, large agoras and markets, amphitheaters, forums and baths where frescos and unique tile work still remain today.

The area today stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has become one of the most visited location in Italy.  The region around Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, is dotted with quaint pastel colored villages that scale volcanic cliffs and are surrounded by turquoise seas.  Positano and Amalfi are two of the areas fascinating towns, situated along the beautiful Mediterranean waters.  Sorrento is yet another seaside gem which was once a cherished retreat of poets like Byron and Keats.

Ruins of a forum in Pompeii

Smithsonian Journeys offers a unique tour to this area that is unmatched.  Tour the archeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum and witness their story, walk the sun drenched streets of seaside towns, take a tour of Naples and its inner old city, and take in a wealth of information from Study Leader Federico Poole, an archeologist who has worked on a variety of sites in the Campania region.  Stay in four-star accommodations in Naples with views of the Castel dell’Ovo and the Mediterranean.

To find out more about this tour, please visit Smithsonian Journeys website for full itinerary, accommodations and tour pricing here