Lupanar, Ancient brothel in Pompeii, Italy
The Lupanar is a two-story Roman establishment in the ancient city of Pompeii, consisting of ten small rooms with stone beds, erotic wall paintings, and ancient graffiti. Each floor holds five chambers, and the frescoes above the doorways depict various scenes that once helped guide visitors through the space.
This building was constructed in the 1st century CE and became buried under ash during the eruption of 79 CE, which preserved its paintings and inscriptions. Its location near the Forum and the Stabian Baths made it a central point in the urban life of Pompeii.
Visitors today can read the 120 Latin inscriptions left by former clients, revealing everyday interactions and social norms in ancient Roman life. Many of these writings include names, comments, and personal messages that offer a direct window into how ordinary people used the space.
The rooms connect through narrow stairs and low doorways, making access difficult for visitors with limited mobility. A walk through both floors takes about ten to fifteen minutes and offers a view of the layout and wall decorations.
Stone phallus symbols embedded in the streets of Pompeii pointed the way to this location, serving as a discreet navigation system for visitors. Above each door, detailed scenes once helped guests make their choice before entering the rooms.
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