by Aileen Pawloski, University At Buffalo

This WebQuest is designed to allow students to research the events that led to the destruction and preservation of the ancient city of Pompeii. Through research and activities they will ultimately decide if they would, or would not, have survived the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.

Introduction

On August 24, 79 C.E. Mt. Vesuvius, an active volcano on the Italian Peninsula, erupted, burying its surrounding cities-and many of its inhabitants-under molten lava and ash. One of the cities completely buried was that of Pompeii. These cities have become some of the best preserved links that we have to Ancient Roman culture.

Traveling back through time, you will assume the identity of Roman inhabitants of Pompeii. How did you cope with the devastating events that August? Did you survive?