Pompeii & Pizza
Day 107 of 164 Days Around the World Cruise
Pompeii: A Window into the Ancient World
Pompeii is an ancient Roman city located near the Gulf of Naples in southern Italy. The city was buried under ash and pumice during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and was rediscovered in the 18th century. Today, Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and attracts millions of visitors each year.
The ruins of Pompeii provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans. Visitors can see the remains of houses, temples, theaters, and public buildings, as well as frescoes, mosaics, and other artworks that have survived for centuries. The city's layout and infrastructure also provide insight into the Roman way of life, from the intricate water supply system to the network of roads and public squares.
One of the most remarkable features of Pompeii is the way in which it was preserved. The layers of ash and pumice that covered the city created a natural time capsule that protected the buildings and artifacts from decay and weathering. As a result, many of the structures and artworks are remarkably well-preserved, giving visitors a vivid sense of what life was like in ancient times.
Despite its tragic history, Pompeii is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the human spirit. The city's ruins have inspired countless artists, writers, and scholars over the centuries, and continue to captivate and inspire visitors from all over the world. A visit to Pompeii is not only a journey into the past, but also a reminder of the enduring power of human civilization
Neapolitan Pizza
Naples, Italy is famous for its pizza, which is known as Neapolitan pizza. Neapolitan pizza has been designated as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage since 2017, and for good reason. It is a simple yet delicious dish that has been enjoyed for centuries.
The crust of a Neapolitan pizza is thin and crispy on the outside, but soft and chewy on the inside. It is made with simple ingredients such as flour, water, yeast, and salt, and is left to rise for several hours before being stretched and cooked in a wood-fired oven.
The toppings on a Neapolitan pizza are also simple, but high-quality. San Marzano tomatoes, grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, are used to make the sauce. Fresh mozzarella cheese, made from the milk of water buffalo that graze in the Campania region, is used to top the pizza. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil complete the dish.
Neapolitan pizza is meant to be eaten with a knife and fork, as it is too soft to be picked up with your hands. It is often enjoyed as a meal on its own, but can also be accompanied by a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
If you find yourself in Naples, be sure to try some authentic Neapolitan pizza. Once you try it, you'll understand why Neapolitan pizza is considered a cultural treasure.