Latin Terms
The Eruption
Society and Daily Life
Religion & beliefs
Archaeology & Sources
100

This Latin term refers to the central open-air courtyard found in many Roman houses.

What is an atrium?

100

This Roman author provided a firsthand account of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Who is Pliny the Younger?

100

The economy of Pompeii relied heavily on this industry, evidenced by fish sauce production and extensive maritime trade.

What is fishing?

100

This temple in Pompeii was dedicated to the king of the Roman gods.

What is the Temple of Jupiter?

100

This Italian archaeologist is known for his extensive work preserving Pompeii using plaster casts.

Who is Giuseppe Fiorelli?

200

This term refers to the two elected officials who governed Pompeii.

What are duumviri?

200

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius occurred in this year.

What is 79 AD?

200

The people of Pompeii commonly used this building as a central marketplace.

What is the macellum?

200

The Temple of Apollo in Pompeii indicates the influence of this ancient civilization on Roman religion.

What is Greece?

200

The carbonised papyri scrolls were found in this place in Herculaneum.

What is Villa of the Papyri?

300

The main street in Pompeii, Via dell'Abbondanza, translates to this in English.

What is "Street of Abundance"?

300

Herculaneum was buried primarily under this volcanic material, which preserved organic matter better than in Pompeii.

What is pyroclastic flow?

300

Many people in Pompeii visited these public facilities for hygiene, relaxation, and socialising.

What are the baths?

300

The Temple of Isis in Pompeii suggests the presence of influence from this ancient civilisation.

What is Egypt?

300

This UNESCO-listed status recognizes the historical significance of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

What is World Heritage Site?

400

This term refers to the large public square at the center of Pompeii, used for commerce and politics.

What is the forum?

400

This volcanic phenomenon, consisting of superheated gases and ash, was responsible for the deaths of many residents.

What is a pyroclastic surge?

400

The Latin name for a courthouse or civic building, where legal and administrative matters were handled.

What is the basilica?

400

 This goddess of love and beauty, considered a patron deity of Pompeii, had a temple dedicated to her in the city.

Who is Venus?

400

This archaeologist developed the "pumice clearance" method to carefully remove layers of volcanic debris.

Who is Vittorio Spinazzola?

500

This term refers to the town council or assembly of decurions who governed local affairs.

What is the ordo decurionum?

500

This nearby city was also affected by the eruption, though it was not completely buried like Pompeii and Herculaneum.

What is Stabiae?

500

Inscriptions and graffiti on Pompeii’s walls provide insight into this aspect of Roman life, including gladiatorial events and elections.

What is public entertainment or politics?

500

This household shrine, often found in Pompeian homes, housed statues of protective spirits.

What is a lararium?

500

The frescoes in Pompeian houses, such as those in the Villa of the Mysteries, are examples of this Roman art style.

What is Second Style?