| Leave Rome along the Autostrada del Sole Southwards. Half way to Naples, the Abbey of Montecassino completely rebuilt after the total destruction in the Second World War, can be seen high up on the hill to our left. Then on into the fertile countryside surrounding Naples. After a short sightseeing, on the way to Pompei stop for a visit to an ancient cameos and coral factory in Torre del Greco. Then on to Pompei for lunch at a restaurant and visit the excavations, 19 century ago during the summer of 79 a.C., Vesuvio suddenly re-erupted completely destroying Pompei and Herculaneum. Its ashes, gases and hot clouds claimed numerous lives but at the same time preserved the existing environment and a way of life typical of the ancient Roman society at its height. The layer of ashes preserved intact people and everyday items, food and domestic animals, all remained steady and hidden untill the first half of the 18th century when regular digs were organised. At the end of the visit continue to Rome with arrival at hotels or nearest point at about 20:30 hours.
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