House of the Tragic Poet: Self-Guided Audio Tours
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Top sights near House of the Tragic Poet

The eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 C.E. presented a paradoxical situation. While it caused immense devastation, wiping out entire communities, it also bestowed upon history an unparalleled collection of well-preserved remnants from an ancient city. This city is known as Pompeii and its awe-inspiring ruins attract countless visitors, making it one of Italy's most renowned destinations. When Vesuvius unleashed its explosive power, equivalent to 100,000 atom bombs, the inhabitants of Pompeii met a swift demise. Paradoxically, the combination of scorching ash and aridity proved instrumental in preserving the city over millennia. Consequently, the remarkable sights we witness today provide an extraordinary glimpse into life during the Roman era. The remnants reveal intricate details of daily existence. Within the confines of Sirico's house, for instance, lies a notable inscription that reads "Salve lucru" (meaning "Welcome, profit"). This inscription indicates Sirico's ownership of a trading company. With an expanse exceeding 50 hectares, visitors have the opportunity to traverse the Forum with the imposing backdrop of Vesuvius or find solace beneath a tree, marveling at the awe-inspiring amphitheater. Remnants of the essential aqueduct, street fountains, and public baths.

Take this in-app audio tour to explore the cursed city of Pompeii that once flourished with life, cultural awakenings, and a buzzing civilization. Note! This tour DOES NOT include an entrance ticket! Buy it at www.pompeii-tickets.com When tragedy stroke and the Vesuvius erupted burning everything in its path, the city of Pompeii became remains and ruins perfectly preserved. You’ll be transported to another era. Wander through its streets and thanks to the historical and archeological background of your guide, the stories and facts will make the city come back to life. The city of Pompeii once bustled with life and you can see that as you visit its theatre, the sacred area, and a brothel. What’s even more impressive is the plastered casts of some of the victims. Find out how the ashes and the techniques used to uncover the city helped to preserve the remains almost intact.

Take this in-app audio tour with a ticket to explore the cursed city of Pompeii that once flourished with life, cultural awakenings, and a buzzing civilization. When tragedy stroke and the Vesuvius erupted burning everything in its path, the city of Pompeii became remains and ruins perfectly preserved. You’ll be transported to another era. Wander through its streets and thanks to the historical and archeological background of your guide, the stories and facts will make the city come back to life. The city of Pompeii once bustled with life and you can see that as you visit its theatre, the sacred area, and a brothel. What’s even more impressive is the plastered casts of some of the victims. Find out how the ashes and the techniques used to uncover the city helped to preserve the remains almost intact. Note! This tour is not affiliated with the Pompeii Park but is provided by an independent creator. The ticket is included for the customer's convenience with no additional fee.
Attractions in Pompei
Cities in Italy
About House of the Tragic Poet
The House of the Tragic Poet in Pompeii is open from 9 AM to 4:15 PM daily.
Please note that the Archeological Park of Pompeii is open every day from 9:00 AM and its closing time varies seasonally. It closes at 5:00 PM from November 1 to March 31 and at 7:00 PM from April 1 to October 31.
The Park is closed on December 25th, May 1st, and January 1st, and so is the House of the Tragic Poet.
The best time to visit the House of the Tragic Poet is in the morning, as there is a little shade in Pompeii. Choose the late spring or early fall months to catch the prolonged opening hours and comfortable weather and walk a lot in peace.
Schedule at least 2 hours to discover the House of the Tragic Poet and the sprawling city of Pompeii to the full.
- Discover the private residence in Pompeii from where the now ubiquitous warning ‘Beware of the dog’ originated
This is because of the celebrated growling dog mosaic on the threshold that the House of the Tragic Poet is famous for.
- Admire the colorful dining room wall paintings
House of the Tragic Poet is laced with Greek mythology based wall paintings. See the Iliad episodes, including the one with Ariadne abandoned by Theseus, preserved in original by the layers of vesuvian ash in 79 A.D.
- Walk the floors once inlaid with elaborated mosaics
Learn about one of the finest mosaics in Pompeii with a theatrical scene of actors in a satirical drama that gave its name to the House of the Tragic Poet.
- Notice the well-preserved lararium in the peristyle
This architectural feature of the ancient Pompeiian houses is designed for the intimate worship to the household tutelary.
Naples is the closest city to Pompeii. If going by train from Naples, take Circumvesuviana or Trenitalia (FS) train from Napoli Centrale. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Naples or Salerno. If going by car, take A3 Napoli-Salerno highway.
The Archeological Park of Pompeii ticket price is €16. The reduced price €3.50 is valid for EU citizens between the ages of 18 and 25.
The entrance is free every first Sunday of the month.
Don’t miss anything while you explore the House of the Tragic Poet and other private houses of Pompeii with the in-app audio tour Pompeii with an Archaeologist. You can get in right away: the entry tickets are included.