Basilica of Pompeii, Roman basilica ruins in Pompei, Italy
The Basilica of Pompeii is a Roman ruin near the Forum featuring 28 brick columns rising to about 11 meters in height. The structure contains a large central hall that once served for public assemblies and legal proceedings.
The basilica was built in the 2nd century BC and functioned as a courthouse and commercial hub until Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, burying it under ash and pumice. The sudden eruption preserved the structure in remarkable condition, allowing later generations to study Roman life.
The walls display numerous Latin inscriptions and graffiti that reveal the daily concerns of Roman citizens. These markings record business dealings, election notices, and personal messages that people left behind.
Access to the basilica is through Via Marina, which leads clearly into the archaeological site. It is best to visit early in the morning when crowds are lighter and you can see the details of the ruins more easily.
The judges' platform has no permanent stairs, likely a security measure to protect magistrates from potentially angry citizens during trials. This detail reveals the everyday tensions that existed in Roman courtrooms.
Location: Pompei
Part of: Pompeii Regio VIII Insula 1
Address: Scavi archeologici di Pompei - Regio VIII - Insula 1 - 1
GPS coordinates: 40.74880,14.48450
Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:00
Temple of Apollo
45 m
Forum of Pompeii
77 m
Temple of Venus in Pompeii
78 m
House of Romulus and Remus
55 m
Casa Del Marinaio
82 m
Casa di Championnet I and II
27 m
Casa di Pane
92 m
Pompeii Comitium
87 m
House and the Courtyard of the Moray Eels (VIII.2.14)
86 m
Casa di Aemilius Crescens
79 m
Casa di Trittolemo
41 m
Shop (VII.16.6)
72 m
Public Administration Buildings, Passageway with steps to upper floor
44 m
Steps to upper floor (VII.16.5)
73 m
Shop (VII.16.4)
76 m
Workshop and shop of Furius
57 m
House (VII.16.1)
92 m
Thermopolium (VII.7.9)
48 m
Shop (VIII.3.29)
82 m
Thermopolium (VII.15.5)
68 m
Building of Eumachia
80 m
Casa del Principe di Montenegro (VII.16.10)
83 m
Steps to upper floor (VIII.2.11)
69 m
Shop (VII.7.3)
28 m
Shop (VIII.3.28)
82 m
Corridoio (VIII.2.9)
55 m
Thermopolium di Flavus Nicephorus
67 m
Via Marina
54 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
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