Pompeii before Vesuvius erupted-feel the weight of history beneath your feet

Pompeii ruins

The novel to read

Pompeii has always been on my bucket list, a childhood dream that I finally fulfilled. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to visit this ancient city. Prior to my trip, I eagerly devoured the pages of Robert Harris’ book, “Pompeii.” His vivid storytelling transported me back in time to a bustling Pompeii, right before the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius. As I wandered amongst the ruins, the sights of crumbling buildings and intricate mosaics came to life before my eyes. The echoing whispers of history filled the air, as if the spirits of the past were sharing their tales. With every step, I could almost feel the vibrations of the city’s daily activities, as if I were a part of its vibrant existence. Thanks to Harris’ narrative, my visit to Pompeii transcended mere observation, allowing me to immerse myself in the rich tapestry of its captivating history.

The vicious looking teeth of a moray eel

 Adorning the walls of a lavish villa, a painting of moray eels caught my attention. Prior to delving into the pages of the book, this artwork would have held little significance. However, in the book, Ampliatus, a character within the story, callously feeds his hapless slave to his eels. This chilling incident is based on the actual historical account of Vedius Pollio. I googled what a moray eel looked like. Shivers shot down my spine, as I thought of that poor slave being ripped to pieces by those teeth.

Walking the ghost streets of Pompeii

If you find yourself captivated by Pompeii, and plan on visiting the ancient ruins, I highly recommend immersing yourself in the pages of Robert Harris’s “Pompeii” beforehand. It will breathe life into the experience, just as it did for me, allowing you to see the significance of the vibrant colors of the frescoes, hear the echoes of wagon wheels and past footsteps, and feel the weight of history beneath your feet.

Colourful frescoes unearthed in Pompeii