Pompeii

Pompeii, ancient Roman city in southern Italy, buried by an eruption of Mt. Vesuvius (A.D. 79). It was rediscovered in 1748. Excavations have revealed a town preserved much as it was on the day of its destruction, even to several bodies. The site has yielded invaluable information on Roman urban life and beautiful examples of Roman art.

See also: Rome, Ancient.