Synopses & Reviews
In this lavish and dramatic account, archacologist Paul Wilkinson pieces together a terrifying picture of what happened in Pompeii on a summer's day in 79 Ad. Using the latest scientific evidence and forensic techniques, he recreates that day hour by hour, bringing to life a vivid timetable of destruction. This fascinating, picture-filled book is the companion to the major Discovery Channel series, The Last Day of Pompeii, first broadcasting nationwide in January 2005.
Synopsis
On August 24, 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted, burying the twin Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under a shroud of volcanic debris. Undisturbed for more than 1,600 years, their eventual discovery and excavation amazed the world. In Pompeii: The Last Day, archaeologist Paul Wilkinson uses all the available evidence to piece together exactly what happened on that fateful day and to paint a vivid picture of what 1st-century Roman provincial life would have been like. The book also includes a one-day tour of Pompeii, complete with street maps and a full itinerary. A unique glimpse of a devastating moment in history. Dr. Paul Wilkinson, an archaeologist specializing in Roman studies, heads the Kent Archaeological Field School. He is a regular contributor to BBC HISTORY MAGAZINE, HISTORY TODAY, and THE SUNDAY TIMES; he is also the editor of PRACTICAL ARCHAEOLOGY.