Vesuvius’s eruption sealed Pompeii’s streets, houses, and frescoes. From 18th‑century digs to today’s conservation, the site grapples with exposure, drainage, vegetation, and tourism. The Great Pompeii Project stabilizes walls and roofs, monitors decay, and improves visitor safety while advancing scientific research.
Early treasure hunting gave way to stratigraphic methods. Exposure triggers salt cycles, biological growth, and structural instability.
Wall plasters, mosaics, and timber roofs require shelters, compatible mortars, and controlled drainage. Seismic risk and heavy rain prompt continuous stabilization.
New routes, safety rails, and interpretation open more houses while reducing congestion. Scientific labs, casts, and digital mapping deepen understanding of daily Roman life.
Wear sturdy shoes; plan shaded breaks and combine with Herculaneum to compare preservation.
