Opening Saturday, November 18, 2017, at Arizona Science Center, POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION examines life in Pompeii both before and after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius on August 24, 79 A.D.  This promises to be one of the most significant and immersive international exhibitions to fill the Science Center’s Sybil B. Harrington Galleries. The exhibition will run from November 18, 2017 through May 28, 2018. Tickets are on sale now at azscience.org/pompeii. 

On August 24, 79 A.D., the Roman city of Pompeii was frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius, burying everything in its path for more than 1700 years. The same ash and debris from Vesuvius’ unpredicted eruption that destroyed the city also remarkably preserved it.

In this blockbuster exhibition, guests will become time travelers, transported to the bustling commercial port and strategic military and trading center of Pompeii. Over 200 precious artifacts on loan from the unparalleled collection of the Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy, including wall-sized frescoes, mosaics, marble and bronze sculptures, jewelry, statues and ancient Roman coins, will bring to life how Pompeii’s people lived, loved, work, worshipped and celebrated. In perhaps the most powerful portion of the exhibition, exquisite body casts of adults and children will vividly communicate the emotions of the victims.

POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION will begin with a dramatic video that introduces Pompeii. Guests will then journey through the ancient city, where they will encounter a Roman villa, a market, temple, theater, and baths. From there, they will witness the impact Mount Vesuvius had on this ancient city as they experience a simulated volcanic eruption in a 4D theater. The exhibition will culminate with the reveal of authentic full body casts of human forms, poignantly dramatizing the impact of the extreme heat and noxious gases that left them forever frozen in time. A small, separate section of the exhibit will feature erotic art in a replica of a Pompeii brothel. Parental discretion is advised for this portion of the exhibition, which is not suitable for all ages.

POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION has received rave reviews across the country and we are thrilled to be able to introduce it to our community in Arizona.” said Chevy Humphrey, the Hazel A. Hare President and CEO of Arizona Science Center. “From the authenticity of the Roman town to the emotional impact of the body casts, this exhibition is truly unforgettable.”

Arizona Science Center will also be hosting a series of events and lectures in conjunction with POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION. Visit azscience.org for updates.

TICKET INFORMATION

POMPEII: The Exhibition requires a timed-entry ticket. Advance purchase is highly recommended. Guests can purchase tickets online at azscience.org/pompeii, or in person at Arizona Science Center.  POMPEII: The Exhibition tickets are $11.95 for adults and $9.95 for children (3–17). Arizona Science Center Member pricing is $9.95 for adults and $7.95 for children. General Admission is required for non-Members and is $18 for adults, $13 for children and $16 for seniors. Times to visit the exhibition will vary, check (insert link) for more details. The exhibition runs from November 18, 2017 through May 28, 2018. 

POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION is generously supported locally by APS, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and U.S. Bank and is located on Level 3 in the Sybil B. Harrington Galleries at Arizona Science Center.