How was this site rediscovered?
ri-sco-PER-to — stress on third syllable. 'Riscoperto' = re-discovered (past participle).
Ask a guide for the history of the site's rediscovery — often as fascinating as the ancient history itself. Many Italian ruins were lost and rediscovered by accident or through deliberate antiquarian searching.
Pompeii was officially rediscovered in 1748 under Charles of Bourbon. But earlier finds were made in 1592 (architect Domenico Fontana) and 1709 (farmers digging a well at Herculaneum). The recovery of these cities transformed European understanding of ancient Rome and launched the Neoclassical movement.
Chi ha fatto le prime scoperte?
Who made the first discoveries?
First finders are often farmers, workers or accidental diggers.
Quando sono iniziati i primi scavi sistematici?
When did systematic excavation begin?
Distinguishes accident from organised archaeology.
Come erano organizzati i primi scavi?
How were the first excavations organised?
Early methods were often destructive by modern standards.
The discovery of Pompeii and Herculaneum in the 18th century sparked a craze for ancient Roman style across Europe — 'Neoclassicism'. Architects, painters, furniture designers and fashion all adopted classical motifs. Wedgwood pottery, Napoleonic furniture and the US Capitol all bear the influence.