Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Pompeii: Casa di Sallustio and Reg V Ins II

 This section of the city was excavated in the 1800s and I'm not sure if that is the reason or if it is purely perchance, but this section is also in the poorest condition. Very few of the structures in this section are very well preserved, and as a result this section of Pompeii is lightly traveled. This is a few down one of the side streets that intrigues me. Note the narrowness of the road, and how closely the buildings were constructed to the road's edge.
 In this area, we also made it to the wall of Pompeii where the label Torre di Mercurio XI appears on this map.
 It does make one pause to think these walls were necessary for protection 2,000 years ago.

 Another section of street where the ruts from wagon wheels can clearly be seen. There was a small walkway on the road's edge, but not much.
 And yet another view. I think this photo, the previous photo, and the first photo were all taken at the same place.
 This structure, obviously reconstructed, also caught my eye. Though we were not allowed in, we took several photos. It turns out that this is number 25 on the map, known as Casa di Sallustio.
Also excavated in the 1800s, here is a photo of it taken in that century. Quite a difference, eh? However, looking back at the first photo of this building, it is evident what parts are original and what parts are reconstructed.
 This structure, which became more commercially oriented over time, sits on Via Consular, a main drag which runs between the gate to Ercolano and the forum - no wonder it drifted in a business oriented direction.
 It contained a bar, a restaurant, and a bakery. It probably did quite a brisk business.
 Along that same road, here are the remains of a bakery.
 And yet another couple of shots of one of my favorite subjects, the Ruts of Pompeii. Hmmm...I wonder if that could be the sequel to the Streets of San Francisco?








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