Both haunting and fascinating in equal measure, Pompeii is arguably the most famous Roman ruin in the world. More than a moment frozen in time, it’s a window into the past. Discover all the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site on a tour with an in-the-know local. Maria, one of our expert guides, says, ‘I’ll show you elegant villas decorated with brilliant frescoes and precious mosaics, and help you get a feel for life lived in ancient Pompeii.’Buried under volcanic ash by the 79 AD eruption of Mt Vesuvius – which still looms large in the distance – Pompeii brings to life ancient Rome. And with an expert guide by your side, you won’t miss a thing. ‘I’m a born and bred local who grew up in a village on the slopes of Mt Vesuvius. Since gaining my degree in history and art, I’ve helped out on archaeological excavations at the site and absolutely fallen in love with the place,’ says Maria.You’ll tread the cobbled streets and have it all brought to life by tales of Pompeii life in the age of Rome. Maria says, ‘the stories here will transport you to a distant world, one that would’ve been lost if it weren’t for the eruption.’ All the major highlights here are covered – the forum, thermal baths, gymnasium and the market piazzas. You can still see frescoes on the walls of the homes of the Roman elite. Walking through its ruins is like leafing through the pages of a living history book.