How many people survived the eruption at Pompeii in 79 CE?

The number of survivors or deaths after the eruption of Vesuvius over Pompeii in 79 CE is not known. The population of the town has been estimated at 10-12,000, with twice as many people again in the surrounding farms and villas. Many people left after the first earthquakes and eruption but many people stayed behind.

Are there still bodies in Pompeii?

The volcanic eruption of 79 CE covered Pompeii and there are many skeletal remains. Plaster casts have also been taken of the impressions left by the dead in the hardened volcanic material.

What is left of Pompeii today?

Pompeii is today a massive archaeological site with significant remains of several thousand buildings. Ruined buildings include villas, baths, an amphitheatre, shops, and residential buildings. There are also many paved streets and artworks such as sculptures, mosaics, and wall paintings.

What is so special about Pompeii?

Pompeii is special because the volcanic eruption of 79 CE preserved the entire town. Buildings, artworks, artefacts, and even human remains all give a unique insight into the everyday life of Romans in the 1st century

Timeline: Pompeii

Definition

Pompeii was a large Roman town in Campania, Italy which was buried in volcanic ash following the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 CE. Excavated in the 19th-20th century, its excellent state of preservation gives an invaluable insight into Roman everyday life. Pompeii is perhaps the richest archaeological site in the world for the volume of data available to scholars.

More about: Pompeii

Timeline

c. 80 BCE
Roman aqueduct built at Pompeii.
80 BCE
Sulla sacks Pompeii following a rebellion and founds the 'Colony of Venus', resettling 4-5,000 war veterans.
c. 75 BCE
The amphitheatre of Pompeii is built.
59 CE
A riot in the arena of Pompeii between locals and citizens of Nuceria results in a ten-year ban on gladiator games in Pompeii.
5 Feb 62 CE
A violent earthquake damages Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other towns in Campania.
64 CE
Emperor Nero visits Pompeii.
Aug 79 CE - Oct 79 CE
Eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in southern Italy burying the towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum in volcanic ash.

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