Nat Geo Day Tour - A Deep Dive into Ancient Roman Life: Pompeii & Oplontis

Explore the sprawling ruins of Pompeii on this National Geographic Day Tour, where you'll marvel at ancient baths, grand theaters, cobblestone streets, oven-filled bakeries, and lavishly decorated homes Your specialist archeological guide has a deep knowledge of the history and architecture of Pompeii and Oplontis. At Casa della Regina Carolina, your guide will share details related to ongoing research of the site Wander through the stunning villas at Oplontis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with some of the Roman period's best-preserved frescoes Learn about Casa della Regina Carolina, one of the largest houses in Pompeii and the site of recent National Geographic-funded research into the daily lives of ancient Romans WHAT TO EXPECT Begin with a short drive to the foothills of Mount Vesuvius and the ruins of Pompeii, an ancient city preserved by volcanic eruption. Wander down cobblestone streets to the Forum, once the hub of Roman life. Follow ancient paths to grand spaces like the House of the Faun with its rich mosaics. Sit in the arena of the theater and study the colossal columns of the Basilica. You'll also visit areas of everyday life like the baths and taverns. Your final stop at this site will be Casa della Regina Carolina, one of the ancient city's largest homes located in an elite neighborhood near the Forum. Learn insights into the ongoing research started by National Geographic Explorer Caitlin Ellis Barret as you discover the house and the daily domestic activities of its wealthy inhabitants. After a light lunch, continue your journey to the port of Torre Annunziata, where you'll descend below street level to ancient Oplontis. As a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area and its two sprawling villas boast some of the best-preserved wall paintings of the Roman period. Your specialist archeological guide will offer historical, cultural and architectural context as you take in Oplontis' wonders. Once inhabited by the Roman elite, marvel at Pompeiian-style frescoes and mosaics, finished with deep azures, oranges, and sunny golds. The intricate use of colour and shading gives these paintings a three-dimensional feel, adding a lifelike quality to these ancient scenes.