Pompeii

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An ancient city covered and perserved by ash from the eruption of Mt. Vesuvious in 79 AD. Rediscovered in the 1700's and excavated, the city is well preserved including some of the victims who were suffocated by ash and gases. Plaster casts were poured into the cavities left behind by the bodies, capturing their terror.

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Photos

Mt. Vesuvious
The catalyst that buried the entire city of Pompei.

main city street
Not unlike present day streets with sidewalks, curbs, and storefronts.

view of ampitheater

grape vineyard
Mt. Vesuvious in the background

People #1
The cavities left by these people were filled with plaster and the molds were returned to the same position in which they were found. They were trying to escape over the city wall.

street
This is a furrow worn into the busy cobble stone street by horse and carriage travel.

The Forum
The hub of activity, the forum was green space surrounded by the church, public buildings, and open markets.

People #2
When the bodies decomposed, only bones remained. You can see this person's skull and teeth amidst the plaster.

People #3
Close up.