The Worst Part Of Pompeiis Destruction Isnt What You Think

You might be forgiven for thinking that the most disturbing part of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A. D. was the sheer suddenness of Pompeiis destruction. But while the towns destruction was unspeakably tragic, the speed at which it happened wasnt nearly the worst thing about it. Two festivals happening in the town at the same time meant the tragedy at Pompeii ended up so much worse than it should have been. According to the book Pompeii: An Archaeological Guide, the Pompeians were in the middle of a multiday celebration in honor of the emperor Augustus. Known today as the first emperor of the Roman Empire, Augustus had passed 65 years earlier and had just been made a god as well as having the month of August named after him. Pompeiis streets were filled with public celebrations including street musicians, fortune tellers, plays, and athletic events. Many of those performers and athletes came from outside Pompeii to take part in the event, as did the visitors and tourists who came to see th