This burgeoning resort city in Roman Italy was transformed forever in AD 79 when the notorious eruption of Mount Vesuvius blanketed it in a thick layer of ash and pumice. Preserved beneath the dust for almost two millennia, Pompeii was eventually rediscovered in the late 16th century, but it took many more years for excavations to begin in earnest.

There’s still much to learn about this lost city and new discoveries are being made all the time: in April 2024, huge frescoes bearing scenes and figures from Greek mythology were found.

Now discover the most visited attraction in every European country

Ranked: Europe’s most exciting archaeological discoveries