House of the Vettii, Ancient Roman domus in Pompeii, Italy
The House of the Vettii is an ancient Roman residence within the archaeological site of Pompeii in Italy, with walls and rooms covered in large painted panels and marble sculptures. Two rectangular gardens with colonnades, fountains and mythological figures organize the interior and create resting areas between the living quarters.
Uncovered between 1894 and 1895, this residence was owned by two freedmen named Aulus Vettius Restitutus and Aulus Vettius Conviva. They had earned their fortune trading wine and invested heavily in furnishing their house.
The name refers to two former slaves who lived here as successful wine merchants and decorated their rooms with scenes from mythology. In one of the courtyards, small winged cupids appear pressing grapes or making perfume, reflecting daily life in prosperous Roman households.
Following a comprehensive restoration project completed in 2023, visitors can again walk through the rooms, gardens and paintings. Spending extra time on site is recommended to absorb the many details across the different halls.
Two iron strongboxes stand open in the entrance hall and were meant to show guests the financial success of the owners. A wall painting of the fertility god Priapus near the entrance was intended to secure prosperity and protection for the house.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
