Pompei: New Discoveries, An Exclusive Archaeological Tour

Discover Pompeii’s Newest Excavations on an Exclusive Guided Tour

This 2-hour archaeological tour in Pompeii, Italy, offers a rare chance to explore recently reopened sites and ongoing excavations with a licensed expert guide. Priced at $65 per person, it promises an insightful look into Pompeii’s latest discoveries and restorations, making it ideal for visitors eager to see beyond the usual highlights. The tour departs from Porta Marina Superiore, the city’s original Roman gate, giving guests a genuine entry point into the ancient city.

What makes this experience stand out is the emphasis on new archaeological work, including a live dig at the Insula of the Chaste Lovers. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into ongoing excavations, combined with visits to reopened sites like the Forum Baths and House of the Vettii, provides an immersive understanding of Pompeii’s evolving story. While it’s a compact 2-hour tour, the focus on special access and expert narration ensures a meaningful exploration for history enthusiasts.

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Key Points

• Exclusive access to newly reopened sites and ongoing excavations in Pompeii
• Led by a licensed archaeologist with a passion for the site
• Includes tickets with skip-the-line entry, saving time
• Focus on recent discoveries like the Forum Baths and House of the Vettii
• Visit the Insula of the Chaste Lovers to see an active dig
• Perfect for those interested in up-to-date archaeological work and restorations

Starting at Porta Marina Superiore: Entrance to Pompeii’s Latest Finds

The tour begins at Porta Marina Superiore, the city’s original Roman gate, offering a fitting entry into Pompeii’s ancient streets. From this point, the guide provides an introduction to the city’s history and describes the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The emphasis is on recent archaeological efforts, which have uncovered new frescoes, mosaics, and structural restorations after 27 years of work at the House of the Vettii.

This starting point allows visitors to appreciate the original Roman entrance and understand how archaeologists are continuously uncovering new details of Pompeii’s past. The guided narration ensures that visitors gain context right from the beginning, setting a tone of discovery and insight.

Exploring the Recently Reopened Forum Baths and Roman Forum

After entering through Porta Marina, the tour walks through the Roman Forum, the political and social heart of Pompeii. The Forum Baths, recently reopened, are a highlight here, with vivid frescoes and intricate mosaics on display. These public bathing facilities showcase the luxury and sophistication of Pompeii’s residents.

The restorations of these structures reveal new details about daily life in ancient times. The guide explains the function and design of these spaces, making the visit more engaging. Visitors get a look at restored frescoes and vivid mosaics that have emerged in recent excavations, offering fresh insights into Pompeii’s vibrant culture.

Regio V and the Tower of Mercury: Defensive and Residential Highlights

The tour continues into Regio V, an area packed with archaeological revelations. Here, guests see the Tower of Mercury, the only remaining Roman defensive tower, which speaks to Pompeii’s military and urban history. This structure’s preservation offers a rare glimpse into Pompeii’s defensive architecture.

Further exploration includes the House of the Vettii, which has been restored after 27 years of work. The house showcases Pompeian red walls and detailed frescoes, reflecting the wealth and artistry of its former inhabitants. The restorations highlight Vettii’s grandeur and give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the restoration process.

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Inside the House of the Vettii: Frescoes and Red Walls

The House of the Vettii is a key highlight, recently reopened after extensive restoration. It is renowned for its Vivid Pompeian red walls and remarkable frescoes. The guide explains the significance of these artworks and architectural features, emphasizing Pompeii’s craftsmanship.

This site allows visitors to observe restored rooms, gaining insight into domestic life and decorative arts. The restoration work here provides a new perspective on Pompeii’s luxurious residences that once belonged to affluent families.

Visiting the House of the Silver Wedding and the Insula of the Chaste Lovers

Next, the tour takes guests to the Casa delle Nozze d’Argento, known as the House of the Silver Wedding. Although details about this house are limited, it forms part of the route that emphasizes recent findings.

The Insula of the Chaste Lovers stands out as a live archaeological dig site. Visitors get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at ongoing excavations where archaeologists and restorers actively work. This active dig offers a unique opportunity to see history uncovered in real time, with modern tools and restoration efforts visible as work continues.

The Tower of Mercury and the Final Stop

The tour concludes at the Tower of Mercury, emphasizing Pompeii’s defensive architecture. As the only remaining Roman defensive tower, it serves as a symbol of Pompeii’s fortifications. Visitors then return to their starting point at Porta Marina, having seen some of the most recent and significant discoveries.

The route’s conclusion at a modernized area ensures visitors leave with the memory of walking through the latest excavations. The experience offers a balance of ancient remains and active archaeology, providing a dynamic perspective on Pompeii’s ongoing story.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Experience

This tour is designed for small groups, enhancing the personalized experience with an expert guide. If the group exceeds 12 people, headsets are provided for clearer narration. The meeting point is at Porta Marina Superiore, across the street from the Hortus Garden Bar & Restaurant.

The tour includes skip-the-line tickets, ensuring quick entry and saving valuable time. It is available in English, French, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible to a diverse audience. The activity lasts 2 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.

Accessibility and Important Considerations

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with non-folding wheelchairs, and pets are not permitted, although assistance dogs are allowed. Guests need to bring an ID or passport for ticketing, as full names are required due to new rules to prevent reselling of tickets.

Participants should arrive punctually to avoid missing their personal, non-transferable tickets. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for planning.

Why Choose This Tour in Pompeii?

This specialized tour appeals most to those interested in recent archaeological work and ongoing excavations. The focus on newly reopened sites and active digs provides a fresh perspective on Pompeii’s stories. The expert guidance ensures detailed explanations, making the experience informative and engaging.

While the tour covers key highlights and new discoveries, it is relatively short, so it’s best suited for visitors with limited time or those who want an in-depth look at Pompeii’s latest archaeological efforts. Its small-group format and skip-the-line access offer a comfortable and efficient way to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 2 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $65 per person, including tickets and expert guiding.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Porta Marina Superiore, the main entrance to Pompeii.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with non-folding wheelchairs.

What sites are included in the tour?
Highlights include Porta Marina, Roman Forum, Forum Baths, Regio V, Tower of Mercury, House of the Vettii, House of the Silver Wedding, and the Insula of the Chaste Lovers.

Is food or drink included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour.

Do I need to bring anything?
Guests should bring passport or ID, as full names are required for tickets.

How do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is across the street from Hortus Garden Bar & Restaurant at Porta Marina Superiore.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, French, Italian, and Spanish.

What makes this tour unique?
It offers access to new excavations and ongoing digs, providing a rare glimpse into Pompeii’s latest archaeological work that most standard tours do not cover.

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