CINCINNATI – The sights, sounds and sensations of daily life and the final days of Pompeii will soon dazzle guests at Cincinnati Museum Center. POMPEII: The Exhibition premieres this Friday, showcasing more than 150 priceless artifacts from historic Pompeii at the height of the Roman Empire, just moments before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.
“Pompeii is a remarkable story that exists as both ancient legend and archaeological treasure, providing a timeless snapshot of daily life in the Roman Empire,” said Elizabeth Pierce, president & CEO of Cincinnati Museum Center. “We’re honored to be entrusted with these archaeological treasures and to once again bring the world to Cincinnati, and to do so in immersive fashion as we transport guests back in time to a period of splendor and a day of timeless catastrophe.”
On August 24, 79 A.D., the city of Pompeii, a thriving port city of the Roman Empire, was frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius, burying the city – and its people – for more than 1700 years. Remarkably, the same ash and debris from Vesuvius’ unexpected eruption that destroyed the city, also preserved it. POMPEII: The Exhibition features more than 150 precious artifacts on loan from the remarkable collection of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples in Italy, including still-vibrant mosaics and frescoes, gladiator armor, statues, jewelry and everyday items that give a glimpse into everyday life in Pompeii.
“We wanted to bring this historical event back to life and allow guests to relive it vividly,” said John Norman, president of World Heritage Exhibitions, producer of POMPEII: The Exhibition. “Cincinnati Museum Center’s reputation as a premiere venue makes it a perfect location to exhibit these international treasures and provide audiences an opportunity to experience life in the bustling city of Pompeii before time essentially stopped.”
POMPEII: The Exhibition is open through July 28 at Cincinnati Museum Center. Visit cincymuseum.org/Pompeii for tickets and more information.
