The ancient Roman site of Pompeii will start limiting its daily visitors to 20,000 starting November 15, following a surge in tourism numbers. Local reports indicate that on the first Sunday of October, when entry was free, the site saw a record 36,000 visitors.
In 2023, nearly four million people visited Pompeii, marking a 33% increase from the prior year and surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Visitor numbers also peaked this October, with over 480,000 visitors, averaging around 15,500 daily. The busiest month in 2024 was May, with around 517,000 visitors or approximately 16,700 each day.
The 20,000-visitor cap will likely impact only a few high-traffic days. A park spokesperson noted that the 20,000 mark is usually exceeded on free-entry Sundays and a few other busy days.
Gabriel Zuchtriegel, Pompeii’s director, emphasized the importance of managing visitor impact to preserve the site and maintain safety. Pompeii, buried by the AD 79 eruption of Mount Vesuvius, is one of the best-preserved Roman sites and offers unique insights into ancient Roman life.
In recent excavations, archaeologists uncovered frescoes of mythological Greek figures, like Helen of Troy and Apollo, in a dining hall decorated with black walls and a mosaic floor of over a million white tiles. Pompeii entry tickets are priced from €18 (£14.90; $19.30).
Around two-thirds of Pompeii has been excavated, with the remaining portion still waiting to be uncovered, attracting significant interest from archaeologists. This well-preserved site offers an exceptionally detailed look into daily life in ancient Rome, with homes, streets, and artifacts remaining largely intact after being encased in volcanic ash for over a millennium.
The site’s administration is taking additional conservation steps, balancing the preservation of Pompeii’s delicate ruins with the demands of modern tourism. Experts are concerned that excessive foot traffic could accelerate wear on the ancient structures, prompting the park’s director and team to explore further strategies, including possible timed ticketing, guided tour requirements, and improved visitor infrastructure.
In addition to the Greek frescoes revealed earlier this year, archaeologists continue to make discoveries that shed light on Roman customs, artistry, and community life. Each excavation adds to Pompeii’s allure, highlighting its role as a vivid snapshot of the ancient world.
As global tourism interest in heritage sites grows, Pompeii remains one of the most iconic examples of ancient urban life preserved in near-original condition, with each visit offering travelers a unique journey into history.
