the other Roman city destroyed by Vesuvius to which its inhabitants returned

However, there were differences between the aforementioned cities. Although it is true that Stabia was destroyed by the eruption, this settlement was less damaged than Pompeii or Herculaneumso what was inhabited againalthough in the following decades it did not become too relevant.

Stabia stood at the foot of the Lattari Mountains, at a distance of about six kilometers south of Pompeii and a little less than two from the sea. It was located in a strategic positiona coastal plain overlooking the Gulf of Naples. It is believed to have originally been an Oscan city before being conquered by the Romans.

Furthermore, this city was known for its pleasant climate and hot springs, which made it a popular place of rest and recreation for the Roman elite. In fact, many luxury villas were built in the area, with panoramic sea views. But as happened to all the surrounding cities and settlements, it could not be saved from the fury of Vesuvius, although it was not completely buried by ash and pumice stone. Many of its inhabitants fled when the eruption began, since they had a better view of the advance of the volcanic cloud.

Estabia was a city famous above all for its opulent villaswhich served as summer residences for the wealthiest Roman citizens. Some of these most notable complexes are Villa San Marco and Villa Arianna, both known for their impressive frescoes and gardens, as well as sophisticated architecture.

It is striking to know that Pliny the Elder died in Stabiathe prominent Roman writer and soldier. According to the accounts of his nephew, Pliny the Younger, his uncle traveled to Stabia with the intention of rescuing a friend and his family. However, he died due to toxic gases or a heart attack caused by panic.

Pliny the Younger narrated this event in the following way in Letters to Tacitus on the death of Pliny the Elder“: “[Mi tío] He was in Misenum and personally commanded the squadron. On the ninth day before the calends of September (August 24), almost at the seventh hour, my mother reported the appearance of a cloud of unusual size and shape.

“He had sunbathed and washed himself with fresh water and then he had eaten a little, and lay down, he studied. He put on his sandals and went up to a place from where he could better contemplate that wonder. A cloud appeared and those who watched it from afar did not know from which mountain it came, but Later it was learned that it was Vesuvius“.

Although it is true that this city was inhabited during the Middle Ages, Estabia was rediscovered in the 18th century. Archaeological excavations revealed a set of well-preserved Roman villas, with frescoes and mosaics that have provided valuable information about life in Ancient Rome.

However, it is worth noting that excavation at Stabia has been more limited and less systematic than at Pompeii and Herculaneum. In any case, although this city does not have the same fame as the other two, Its archaeological legacy is equally significant.