Cities of Vesuvius

The Nature of Sources

Physical Environment

Pompeii is located in Campania.

The River Sarno flows through the area from east to west into the bay.

The area is very fertile – aided by volcanic soil!

Vesuvius has erupted more than 70 times since AD79.

Resources

Due to the fertile soil farmers grew crops such as barley, wheat, vegetables, grapevines and wine, olives.

Fish life was abundant. Many animals were raised such as goals, and

sheep. They were also able to mix cement and make

their own pots.

Discoveries

Both towns were discovered by accident. Pompeii – when workmen were digging a

canal uncovered wall paintings. Herculaneum - during the digging of a well

workmen found marble fragments belonging to the Theatre.

Early excavations were basically treasure hunting!

Giuseppe Fiorelli

Was the Superintendent of Pompeii and Herculaneum in the 1860’s.

Made the plaster casts Made a grid of the city to locate finds Made archaeologists keep a day book of the

site. Most significant contributions to the

development of the site.

Giuseppe Fiorelli

Nature of Sources

Written Evidence Graffito Inscriptions Letters Tombstones Scrolls of Papyri

What does this Graffito tell us? Entertainment Role of Slaves Rooms for rent Gladiators were

heartthrobs Competition with

Nuceria Political slogans Various guilds

Hunts were on Insults Love messages Philosophy Religion and politics

Nature of Sources

Archaeological Evidence Buildings – private and public Household equipment Pictures and mosaics Cooking and medical equipment Jewellery and glassware Human remains