The policy of limiting entries to Italian historical sites continues. Following the recent decision to restrict access to the Trevi Fountain, Pompeii is also adopting new regulations. Starting November 15, entry to the archaeological excavations will be on a limited basis, with mandatory reservations and named tickets.
A success with over 4 million visitors in 2023
The Pompeii excavations represent a treasure of world archaeology, preserving the intact remains of the ancient city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. In 2023, the archaeological site welcomed over 4 million visitors, recording a 33.6% increase compared to the previous year.
Among the site’s most captivating attractions is the House of the Faun, one of the largest villas in Pompeii, as well as the evocative Pompeii Theater, dating back to the Samnite period. With a capacity of over 5,000 spectators, the theater dominates a hill. Just outside the city walls lies the unmissable Villa of the Mysteries, famous for its frescoes dedicated to the god Dionysus, constructed by the Romans around the 2nd century BC.
Another tourist draw is the Thermopolium, the ancient Roman “fast food” of which 89 examples have been found scattered throughout Pompeii; here, hot food and drinks were served directly at the counter. A true gem of the site is the House of the Vettii, a luxurious villa decorated with extraordinary frescoes, once owned by two wealthy freedmen brothers.
A more relaxed and sustainable tourism
In times of overtourism, where excessive crowds overwhelm historical sites and cities of art, there is a growing need for more sustainable and fulfilling ways of visiting. After reaching peaks of over 36,000 tourists per day last summer, Pompeii is introducing a new daily limit of 20,000 entries. During the summer period, entry will be divided into time slots to ensure a more pleasant and relaxed experience.
The park director, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, explains, “We are working on a series of projects to reduce the anthropic pressure on the site, to the benefit of both visitors and the historic heritage, which is fragile and unique. We aim for slow and sustainable tourism, also distributed throughout the area surrounding the site, which offers many other cultural treasures. We are convinced that only those who focus on quality can grow sustainably, also helping local operators who face an ever-evolving tourism context.”
For more information on the Pompeii Excavations, visit the official website.
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