Pompeii Comes To New York

Pompeii exhibit posters

 I have had the good fortune of being able to visit Pompeii, Italy. For a history buff, it didn't take much for me to be motivated to be there. The idea of being able to walk in, essentially, a time capsule of ancient Rome was very appealing to me. For the non-history buffs, motivation was in short supply- the temperature was 100+ and there was zero shade. However, everyone was absolutely captivated when we came across our first "figures."

The instant we gazed our eyes upon these haunting figures, everyone solemnly moved about and viewed them each carefully- almost in a "paying your last respects" type way. It was unlike anything I had ever witnessed.

Until I went to the Pompeii Exhibit at Discovery Times Square. When I first heard of the exhibit, I wasn't all that enthused- I figured there was no way you could recapture the ambiance of Pompeii. Afterall, when walking in Pompeii, you are walking in the footsteps of these tragic Romans while Vesuvius looms (and broods) in the background. However, the people at Discovery Times Square blew us all away with how they recreated the Pompeii experience. There were hundreds of artifacts, a handful of videos and truly impressive timelines. You can tell that a great deal of time and effort was put into creating the exhibit- no detail was spared.

And, yes, there were the figures. I won't spoil the viewing of the figures- it is a special moment. Just be prepared for the somberness that follows. As my tour guide in Italy said- "If you want to truly capture the moment these people died, just look at their faces." Its advice I pass on to all of you. 

You can tell that Discovery Times Square put a great deal of time and effort into creating the exhibit- no detail was spared. Tickets for Pompeii are (a bit) pricey at $25 each, and there are no student discounts. However, don't let that deter you from being able to walk the streets of Pompeii- it truly is a once in a lifetime experience.