- Official name: Antiquarium of Pompeii
- Location/Address: 80045 Pompei, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
- Date of opening: January 2021
- Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM (Daily)
- Architect: Giuseppe Fiorelli
- Number of visitors per year: 2.5 million visitors yearly
- Function: Archaeological museum
Pompeii Antiquarium | Museum housing artefacts from the Samnite to Roman eras
What is the Pompeii Antiquarium?
The Pompeii Antiquarium is an archaeological museum near the historic ruins of Pompeii, Italy. It is a vital center for preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried by Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 AD. Today, the museum houses artifacts excavated from the Pompeii archaeological site, including mosaics, sculptures, pottery, and everyday objects.
Pompeii Antiquarium quick facts
Why visit the Pompeii Antiquarium?
- Historical allure: The Pompeii Antiquarium is home to a vast collection of artifacts from Pompeii, and offers a tangible link to its rich history and the daily lives of its inhabitants.
- It survived everything: The Pompeii Antiquarium faced turbulent times throughout history. It was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius’ eruption, World War II bombings, and the earthquake in 1980.
- Commendable preservation efforts: The museum is vital to preserving Pompeii's cultural heritage. It serves as a hub for ongoing research and conservation efforts.
- Rich cultural experience: Pompeii Antiquarium forms an integral part of the overall cultural experience, immersing visitors in the fascinating world of ancient Rome.
- Archaeological wonders: From well-preserved mosaics to household items, the exhibits showcase remarkable archaeological discoveries that captivate history enthusiasts.
- Convenient location: Located near the historic ruins, the Antiquarium is easily accessible from various parts of Naples.
What to see at the Pompeii Antiquarium
Visit Room 1
Pompeii Antiquarium’s Room 1 peeks into life during the Roman epoch and conditions of the Vesuvian area. You’ll see artifacts, such as a fishbone helmet and rock, and learn about the practice of fishing and the use of botanical species that grew along the coast and the mouth of the Sarno River.
Exolore the eruption of Mount Vesuvius
The inhabitants of Pompeii constructed lavish villas and produced wine without realizing they lived on the edge of a volcano. Vesuvius poured down for two days, causing roofs to collapse and mowing down the first victims. Residents tried escaping but an extremely violent release of toxic gas and glowing ash killed everyone in sight. Pompeii Antiquarium has a room dedicated to the eruption of Vesuvius. You’ll find casts, pieces of clothing, and other items of the victims.
See victims' casts and daily items
Thousands of Pompeii residents suffered horrible fates due to the Vesuvius eruption of 79 AD. They lost their lives, with pieces of their body and clothing found in the excavation efforts at Pompeii. The Antiquarium houses these items, providing insight into life in ancient Rome.
Admire the building's craftmanship
Pompeii Antiquarium, in its current form, is the result of work by specialized companies that stepped in when the building was damaged by an earthquake in 1980, and had to be shut for a long period after. A diverse workforce of laborers, architects, and artisans helped shape the Antiquarium’s future, leading to the creation of beautifully designed inns, eateries, and lodgings that shed light into the architectural techniques of the time.
See ancient paintings
The Pompeii Antiquarium houses paintings from the House of the Criptiportico, House of the Ceii, House of Marcus Lucretius pediment, House of the Ephebe, Villa of the Mysteries, House of Sirico, House of the Prince of Naples, House of the Vettii, House of Adonis ferito, House of Venus in shell, House of the Golden Bracelet and House of Casti Amant.
Hear fascinating tales from AmadeoBot
Every visitor to the Pompeii Antiquarium can leverage AmedeoBot, an integrated digital tool supplying simple service information. The bot provides historical and archaeological context of various sections of the attraction and helps discover several points of interest during the tour.
History of the Pompeii Antiquarium
The Pompeii Antiquarium was originally housed in the Bourbon Palace of Naples. However, as the collection of unearthed artefacts grew from the ruins, the Pompeii Antiquarium needed a new home.
The dream turned into reality in 1988, with a modern and architecturally striking building opened near the entrance of the Pompeii archaeological site. It was a fitting end to the attraction's long and challenging journey, during which it suffered multiple closures.
The Antiquarium suffered heavy damage due to the World War II bombings and the 1980 earthquake, with both events leading to several months of closure. However, it was restored each time and stands as proof of Pompeii’s rich heritage.
Frequently asked questions about the Pompeii Antiquarium
The Pompeii Antiquarium is an archaeological museum near the historic ruins of Pompeii, Italy. It preserves and showcases the rich heritage of Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried by Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 AD.
You can buy Pompeii Antiquarium tickets at the Pompeii Archaeological Park ticket office or online in advance. Booking online is encouraged to guarantee entry and avoid long queues.
Yes, a visit to the Pompeii Antiquarium is included in the Pompeii Archaeological Park ticket price.
Pompeii Antiquarium is home to ancient paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. You can visit Room 1, home to ancient objects, see countless paintings and admire Pompeii Antiquarium’s architecture on your visit.
In 1980 more than three thousand people were displaced by the earthquake, and the Antiquarium also suffered extensive damage, which caused its closure. An expert pool of archeologists and scientists slowly rebuilt the structure, and reopened it a few decades later.
The Pompeii Antiquarium is open Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM with last admission at 3:30 PM. However, timings may vary depending on the season. Please check your ticket at the time of booking to confirm.
The Pompeii Antiquarium is located in the Pompeii Archaeological Park, which is situated on the west coast of Italy, about 14 miles (23 kilometers) southeast of Naples. The recommended entrance to the Antiquarium is via Piazza Esedra.
The Pompeii Antiquarium is wheelchair accessible.
Yes, photography is allowed at the Pompeii Antiquarium. However, flash photography and the usage of tripods is not allowed.
There is no specific dress code for visiting the Pompeii Antiquarium. However, it is important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
The best time to visit the Pompeii Antiquarium is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
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