Pompeii

Pompeii was preserved, its urban design and domestic styles captured when Vesuvius erupted in 79AD. This volume presents the history of Pompeii, tracing the urban images that marked Pompeii's development from country town to Roman imperial city. It explores Pompeii's public buildings, its streets and gathering places, the impact of religious changes, the renovation of theatres and expansion of athletic facilities and the influence of elite families on the city's appearance. The private houses of Pompeii prove eloquent, their layout, decor, and architectural detail speak volumes about the way of life, taste and desires of their owners - whether at home or in public, at work or at ease.