Pompeii Culture — Society, Religion & Arts in the Ancient City

Culture and Society in Ancient Pompeii

Pompeii's extraordinary preservation has given us an unparalleled window into the cultural life of an ancient Roman city. From its stunning art and architecture to its religious practices and social customs, Pompeii reveals a society that was sophisticated, diverse, and deeply human.

Art and Decoration

Pompeii is one of the richest sources of Roman art in existence. The city's walls were covered with frescoes painted in vivid pigments that have retained their color for nearly two millennia. Art historians have classified Pompeian wall painting into four distinct styles spanning from the 2nd century BC to 79 AD, providing a comprehensive overview of the evolution of Roman decorative art.

Religion and Worship

Pompeii was a polytheistic city with temples dedicated to numerous deities including Jupiter, Apollo, Venus, Isis, and others. The city's religious landscape reflected its multicultural heritage, with traditional Roman cults existing alongside Greek and Egyptian influences. The Temple of Isis, beautifully restored after the earthquake of 62 AD, demonstrates the popularity of Eastern mystery religions in the Roman world.

Explore Culture Topics

• Pompeii: City of Sin — Was Pompeii really as decadent as its reputation suggests?
• Pompeii in Islam — The story of Pompeii in Islamic tradition
• The Economy of Pompeii — Trade, industry, and commerce