Highlands Ranch High School - Mr. Sedivy
Highlands Ranch, Colorado

Historical Background
The Ancient City of Pompeii - II

To date, about 80% of the ruins at Pompeii have been excavated and studied, giving us a picture of how the city was built and organized. Pompeii was surrounded by a three-kilometer wall containing eight gates.

Large Gate for Animals and Vehicles, and Small Gate for People
In the Wall That Surrounds Pompeii

Exterior View of the Wall at Pompeii

The city of Pompeii had a population of 8,000 - 10,000 people, about 60% freemen and 40% slaves. House slaves came from the East and were almost always well-educated -- often more so than their owners. A small, prosperous family in Pompeii generally had two or three slaves; larger families had many more, including slaves that were doctors or teachers. A slave could be granted freedom by his owner or by paying a large sum of money, becoming a "freedman."

Ruins at Pompeii, Example of Doric Columns

Interior View of the Basilica

The Forum is located to the west with public buildings and temples grouped around it. The Large Theatre is to the south, and the Amphitheatre is located to the east.

Municipal Buildings on the South Side of the Forum

About two-thirds of the walled city is occupied by private buildings including shops, offices, inns and houses. The area outside the city gates is the Necropolis or cemetery.

The Port of Pompeii was originally located on the coast. The exact location of the port has not been identified, although several buildings have been discovered.

Historical Background of Pompeii - I

Background of Pompeii - II