79 CEReputable source · 2 sourcesWell documented
Vesuvius Buries Pompeii
On the timeline · around 79 CE ·
What happened
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE buried the Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum under ash and volcanic debris, killing many inhabitants and sealing the sites in remarkable detail.
Why it matters
Rediscovered and excavated from the 18th century onward, the buried cities are among the most vivid windows we have into everyday Roman life.
How we know
Excavations since the 18th century and an eyewitness account by Pliny the Younger document the eruption; the traditional 24 August date is debated, with some evidence pointing to autumn 79 CE.
Sources
- World History Encyclopedia. Pompeii · Reputable source
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata · Reputable source