When I visited Pompeii in January 1972, the argument about whether to preserve it or leave it alone was raging. Few houses were open, and I didn't see wall paintings. (Also, I was there on a quick visit between two sleepless nights). This time I was struck by the huge amount of areas open to the public, the vast amount of restoration, and the sense of a town caught in a moment. Vesuvius yawns over the masses of tour groups as well as the ruins. The colosseum is the oldest extant, as well as the model for the Yale Bowl. While many houses are closed, many are open, and the frescoes are beautiful. (Much has been moved to the Naples archeological museum.) We found a lovely garden on a side street where we could sit, listen to birds, and hide from the other tourists. An incredible site.
No comments:
Post a Comment