Casa Di Diana

Casa di Diana Pompeii: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Historical Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Casa di Diana, situated on Pompeii’s northern city walls, is a captivating testament to Roman domestic architecture and culture, offering a unique insight into the daily life, artistry, and social dynamics of Pompeii’s elite prior to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. This guide presents a detailed overview of Casa di Diana’s history, architectural significance, and practical visitor information, including ticketing, opening hours, accessibility, and travel tips. Whether you are a history enthusiast, student, or traveler, Casa di Diana is a must-see highlight in the Pompeii archaeological landscape.

For official updates, visit the Pompeii Sites website and consult visual documentation from Pompeii in Pictures.

Historical Overview

Early Settlement and Urban Development

Pompeii’s origins date back to the 8th century BCE, with early settlements influenced by Greek and Etruscan cultures. By the Samnite period (5th–4th centuries BCE), urban planning flourished, setting the stage for residential areas like the future site of Casa di Diana (europe.factsanddetails.com; pompei.it).

Romanization and Elite Residences

After the Roman conquest in the 1st century BCE, Pompeii saw significant urban and economic growth. Elite houses like Casa di Diana reflected the wealth, taste, and status of their owners, incorporating features such as peristyles, atriums, and elaborate decorative programs (europe.factsanddetails.com).

The Eruption of 79 CE

Mount Vesuvius’s eruption in 79 CE buried Pompeii beneath ash and pumice, preserving entire buildings, frescoes, and everyday objects in remarkable detail. Casa di Diana, frozen in time, offers a rare snapshot of Roman domestic life (whc.unesco.org; bbc.co.uk).

Rediscovery and Archaeological Excavation

Rediscovered in 1748, systematic excavations revealed Casa di Diana’s well-preserved structure and artworks. The house’s name derives from frescoes depicting the goddess Diana, reflecting religious practices of its inhabitants (pompei.it).

Architectural Features and Artistic Significance

Layout and Structure

Casa di Diana exemplifies the mid-sized Pompeian domus, with a central axis running from the main entrance through a Tuscan atrium, a tablinum, and a peristyle garden at the rear. Additional features include cubicula (bedrooms), a triclinium (dining room), and service areas, all organized for both privacy and public reception (Pompeii in Pictures).

Entrance: The vestibule features dual entrances with lava thresholds and sloping opus incertum walls for drainage.
Atrium: Characterized by a waterproof signinum floor, white marble tesserae, and a marble-clad impluvium.
Peristyle: Original columns, some reinforced after the 62 CE earthquake, surround the garden.
Construction Materials: Early phases used Sarno limestone; later repairs incorporated brickwork and opus incertum.

Decorative Elements

Frescoes: Remnants of vibrant wall paintings, geometric and floral motifs, and mythological themes showcase the Second and Third Pompeian Styles. While many frescoes have faded or been relocated to museums, surviving elements provide insight into Roman interior decoration (SeePompeii).
Mosaics: Floors in the atrium and other rooms feature colored stone inlays, marble tesserae, and intricate borders.
Architectural Details: Stuccoed columns and capitals, along with the focal impluvium, highlight the importance of light, water, and aesthetic display.

Artistic and Cultural Value

Casa di Diana reflects the aspirations and tastes of Pompeii’s upper-middle class, blending practicality with artistic ambition. The architectural modifications over time, including repairs post-earthquake, illustrate resilience and adaptability. Early discoveries, such as personal signet rings, offer tangible connections to former residents (Pompeii in Pictures).

Recent Discoveries and Ongoing Research

Archaeological work continues to reveal new information about Casa di Diana and similar residences, aided by modern technologies like 3D scanning and materials analysis. Conservation efforts by organizations such as the World Heritage Centre ensure ongoing preservation (whc.unesco.org).

Visiting Casa di Diana: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours

April 1 – October 31: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
November 1 – March 31: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM)
Closed: Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and occasionally May 1
Note: Hours may change due to conservation work or special events. Always verify via Pompeii Sites.

Tickets

Standard: €22 (includes main site and select suburban villas)
Reduced: €2 (EU citizens aged 18–25)
Free entry: Under 18s, EU citizens with disabilities (+ companion), and on designated free days
Combined tickets: €18 for Pompeii, Oplontis, and Boscoreale
Purchase: Online via TicketOne or at main entrances. Tickets are nominative (ID required), and there is a daily visitor cap (Pompeii Sites).

Accessibility

Pompeii offers the “Pompeii for All” accessible route, including ramps and smoother surfaces (Sorrento Italy).
Casa di Diana may have limited accessibility due to ancient terrain; check current status before visiting.
Free admission for EU citizens with disabilities and one companion (documentation required).

Facilities and Services

Restrooms: Accessible facilities at main entrances.
First aid: Near Chora Cafe.
Food: Casina dell’Aquila offers self-service dining.
Information: Bookshop and info points at Piazza Esedra and Via Villa dei Misteri.

Enhancing Your Visit

Guided Tours and Audio Guides

Audio guides: Rent at main entrances from €9.00.
Guided tours: Available for individuals and groups, including accessible tours. Book at entrances or in advance (Pompeii Sites).

Photography

Personal photography is allowed; professional photography requires prior authorization.
Respect all conservation rules; do not touch frescoes or mosaics.

Travel Tips

Wear sturdy shoes and bring sun protection.
Carry water; on-site refreshment options are limited.
Download the Audiala app for a self-guided tour.

Major Nearby Attractions

House of the Vettii: Renowned for mythological frescoes (Savoring Italy).
Villa of the Mysteries: Famous for Dionysian frescoes (The Better Vacation).
House of the Faun: Site of the Alexander Mosaic (The Better Vacation).
Forum & Basilica: Pompeii’s civic heart (Time Travel Turtle).
Amphitheatre: One of the oldest Roman amphitheatres (Greta’s Travels).
Stabian Baths: Example of Roman bathing culture (The Archaeologist).

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day: Casa di Diana, House of the Vettii, Forum, Stabian Baths.
Full-Day: Casa di Diana, House of the Faun, Forum, Amphitheatre, Villa of the Mysteries.
Two-Day: Day 1 in Pompeii, Day 2 at Mount Vesuvius, Herculaneum, or Naples National Archaeological Museum.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Casa di Diana visiting hours?
A: Generally 9:00 AM–7:00 PM (April–October) and 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (November–March). Check Pompeii Sites for seasonal updates.

Q: Do I need a separate ticket for Casa di Diana?
A: No, entry is included in the general Pompeii archaeological site ticket.

Q: Is Casa di Diana accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Accessibility is limited; the “Pompeii for All” route improves access to parts of the site.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, both general and specialized tours are available.

Q: Can I take photos inside Casa di Diana?
A: Yes, for personal use. Professional photography requires permission.

Q: What else can I see nearby?
A: Major sites include the House of the Vettii, Villa of the Mysteries, Forum, and more.

Practical Recommendations

Buy tickets in advance to avoid queues.
Start early to enjoy a quieter visit.
Follow all site rules to help preserve Pompeii’s heritage.
Consult Pompeii Sites and Pompeii in Pictures for updates and resources.

References and External Links

Final Thoughts

Casa di Diana represents the resilience, artistry, and daily realities of ancient Pompeii’s elite. Its enduring architecture and art, coupled with modern visitor amenities and ongoing research, make it an essential stop for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Roman civilization. Plan ahead, respect the site, and let the stories of Casa di Diana enrich your journey through Pompeii.