House VIII.6.1 Pompeii: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Pompeii, Italy, stands as one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites, offering unparalleled insight into the daily life, architecture, and society of the ancient Roman world. Within its extensive ruins, Region VIII is particularly noteworthy for its blend of religious monuments, entertainment venues, and elite residences, epitomized by the House at VIII.6.1. This well-preserved domus, located near major civic spaces, offers a vivid window into Roman domestic life on the eve of Mount Vesuvius’s eruption in 79 CE.

This comprehensive guide presents everything you need to plan your visit—from updated hours and ticketing details to accessibility, guided tours, and historical highlights. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a student of ancient history, or simply curious, this resource will help you maximize your visit to House VIII.6.1 and Region VIII of Pompeii.

For the latest updates, always consult the Official Pompeii Website.

Contents

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

  • Opening Hours:
    Pompeii Archaeological Park is typically open from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM (last entry 6:00 PM) from April to October, and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 3:30 PM) from November to March. Always confirm current hours on the official website.

  • Tickets:

    • Adults: ~€16
    • Reduced (EU citizens 18–25): ~€2
    • Free for children under 18
    • Combined tickets with sites like Herculaneum are available.
      Tickets can be bought online or at the entrance. Purchase online to avoid queues.

Getting to Region VIII and Accessibility

  • Location:
    Region VIII lies in the southern and southwestern part of Pompeii, near major landmarks like the Forum and Stabian Baths.

  • Entrances:
    The Porta Marina entrance is most convenient for accessing Region VIII and House VIII.6.1.

  • Accessibility:
    Pompeii’s ancient streets are uneven, but main routes have been improved for accessibility. Some areas remain challenging for wheelchair users; check the latest details and consider advance planning.


Guided Tours and Travel Tips

  • Guided Tours:
    Numerous reputable operators offer tours of Region VIII, focusing on its temples, theaters, and elite residences such as House VIII.6.1. Official guides provide crucial historical and architectural context.

  • Optimal Visiting Times:
    Early morning and late afternoon are best for avoiding crowds and heat.

  • Photography:
    Early daylight is ideal. Respect site rules—no flash or tripods.


Region VIII: Historical and Architectural Highlights

  • Doric Temple (Sanctuary of Athena and Hercules):
    One of Pompeii’s oldest structures, showing Greek influence.

  • Temple of Isis:
    Reflects the city’s multicultural religious landscape.

  • Theatres and Gladiators’ Barracks:
    Evidence of Pompeii’s vibrant entertainment life.

  • Residential Architecture:
    Elite houses like VIII.6.1 blend public and private spaces, boasting intricate frescoes, peristyle gardens, and advanced water features.


Everyday Life in Ancient Pompeii

Walking through Region VIII, visitors experience the close integration of commercial and domestic life. Shops, workshops, and homes clustered together, reflecting how commerce and daily routines intertwined. Domus such as House VIII.6.1 typically included an atrium (main hall), cubicula (bedrooms), and a peristyle garden, carefully designed for social rituals and family life.


Archaeological Significance and Preservation

Excavations in Region VIII have been ongoing since the 18th century, yielding invaluable artifacts and architectural insights. Preservation efforts focus on stabilizing ancient structures and conserving wall paintings, ensuring that future generations can experience Pompeii’s unique heritage.


Nearby Attractions

  • Pompeii Forum:
    The civic and commercial heart of the ancient city.

  • Stabian Baths:
    The largest and oldest public baths in Pompeii.

  • Other Domus in Region VIII:
    Several elite houses offer further glimpses into ancient Roman life.

  • Amphitheatre:
    Explore gladiatorial history in one of the oldest Roman amphitheaters.


House VIII.6.1: Layout, Features, and Notable Discoveries

Location and Context

House VIII.6.1 is located in Regio VIII, Insula 6, a central area near major civic landmarks (Pompeii Archaeological Park).

Architectural Layout

  • Façade:
    Modest, windowless, built of tufa and lava stone, sometimes with adjacent shops (pompeionline.net).

  • Entrance and Atrium:
    The vestibulum leads to an atrium—a central open hall with a compluvium (roof opening) and impluvium (water basin). Surrounding rooms include cubicula, alae, and a tablinum (main reception room).

  • Peristyle Garden:
    Columns surround a private garden, often with fountains, mosaics, and mythological frescoes (madainproject.com).

  • Triclinium:
    The dining room, oriented toward the peristyle, decorated with intricate wall paintings.

  • Service Spaces:
    Kitchens and storage rooms are set toward the rear, with evidence of domestic labor and daily routines.

  • Upper Floors:
    Some houses had upper stories, though most wooden structures have not survived (pompeionline.net).

Decorations and Artifacts

  • Wall Paintings:
    Fourth Style frescoes with mythological and architectural motifs.

  • Mosaics:
    Opus signinum and geometric designs on floors.

  • Artifacts:
    Pottery, utensils, oil lamps, and personal items reveal daily life (thearchaeologist.org).

Archaeological and Cultural Insights

House VIII.6.1 provides a microcosm of Roman society:

  • The atrium was the stage for daily salutatio (patron-client greetings).
  • Lararia (household shrines) and ancestral images reflect religious and familial values.
  • Evidence of both public hospitality and private family life is found in spatial organization.

Visitor FAQs

Q: Can I visit House VIII.6.1 independently?
A: Yes, it is part of the general Pompeii archaeological park; some areas may be restricted for conservation.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, many guides and tour companies include House VIII.6.1 in their itineraries.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Tickets are available online, at the entrance, or through authorized resellers. Online purchase is recommended.

Q: Is the house accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Accessibility is partial; uneven terrain may pose challenges.

Q: What are the best photo spots?
A: The atrium, peristyle garden, and frescoed rooms offer excellent opportunities.


Practical Tips for Your Visit

  • Arrive early or late for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
  • Comfortable footwear is essential due to uneven surfaces.
  • Bring water, sun protection, and a hat—shade is limited.
  • Respect preservation rules: do not touch frescoes/artifacts, and follow all posted guidelines.
  • Consider using digital guides or the Audiala app for enriched interpretation.

Conclusion

House VIII.6.1 exemplifies the sophistication and complexity of Roman domestic life, set within the dynamic urban fabric of Pompeii’s Region VIII. By planning ahead, respecting conservation efforts, and making use of educational resources, you can enjoy a memorable and insightful visit. Continue your journey with nearby landmarks and further reading for a deeper appreciation of Pompeii’s enduring legacy.

For current information and to enhance your visit, consult the Official Pompeii Website and explore digital audio guides like the Audiala app.



Visit The Most Interesting Places In Pompeii

Aedicula Tomb Of Publius Vesonius Phileros
Aedicula Tomb Of Publius Vesonius Phileros
Amphitheatre Of Pompeii
Amphitheatre Of Pompeii
Bakery (Ix.1.3)
Bakery (Ix.1.3)
Boar House
Boar House
Casa Del Forno
Casa Del Forno
Casa Del Menandro
Casa Del Menandro
|
  Casa Del Triclinio All'Aperto
| Casa Del Triclinio All'Aperto
Casa Della Nave Europa
Casa Della Nave Europa
Casa Della Regina Carolina (Viii 3.14)
Casa Della Regina Carolina (Viii 3.14)
Casa Di Diana
Casa Di Diana
Casa Di Ercole Ed Auge
Casa Di Ercole Ed Auge
Casa Di L. Aelius Magnus
Casa Di L. Aelius Magnus
Casa Di Marco Lucrezio Fronto
Casa Di Marco Lucrezio Fronto
Casa Di Pane
Casa Di Pane
Casa Di Stallius Eros
Casa Di Stallius Eros
Casa Di Trittolemo
Casa Di Trittolemo
Casa Senza Nome I.12.9.
Casa Senza Nome I.12.9.
Castellum Aquae
Castellum Aquae
Caupona Of Lucius Betutius (Vetutius) Placidus
Caupona Of Lucius Betutius (Vetutius) Placidus
Caupona (Vi.14.1)
Caupona (Vi.14.1)
Caupona (Viii.5.20)
Caupona (Viii.5.20)
Central Baths
Central Baths
Dye Shop Of Ubonius (Vii.2.11)
Dye Shop Of Ubonius (Vii.2.11)
Eumachia Building
Eumachia Building
Fabbrica Del Sapone
Fabbrica Del Sapone
Forum Baths, Pompeii
Forum Baths, Pompeii
Forum Granary
Forum Granary
Fullonica Of Sestius Venustus
Fullonica Of Sestius Venustus
Great Theatre Of Pompeii
Great Theatre Of Pompeii
Horticultural Plot (Viii.6.2)
Horticultural Plot (Viii.6.2)
Hotel?
Hotel?
House (Ix.10.1)
House (Ix.10.1)
House Of Cryptoporticus (I.6.2)
House Of Cryptoporticus (I.6.2)
House Of Julia Felix
House Of Julia Felix
House Of L. Caecilius Phoebus
House Of L. Caecilius Phoebus
House Of Leda And The Swan
House Of Leda And The Swan
House Of Mercurio (Vii.2.35)
House Of Mercurio (Vii.2.35)
House Of Octavius Quartio
House Of Octavius Quartio
House Of Pansa
House Of Pansa
House Of Pompeius Axiochus
House Of Pompeius Axiochus
House Of Sallust
House Of Sallust
House Of Severus
House Of Severus
House Of The Centenary
House Of The Centenary
House Of The Chaste Lovers
House Of The Chaste Lovers
House Of The Dioscuri  (Vi.9.6)
House Of The Dioscuri (Vi.9.6)
House Of The Faun
House Of The Faun
House Of The Lararium Of Achilles
House Of The Lararium Of Achilles
House Of The Large Fountain
House Of The Large Fountain
House Of The Painters At Work
House Of The Painters At Work
House Of The Prince Of Naples
House Of The Prince Of Naples
House Of The Quadrigae (Vii.2.25)
House Of The Quadrigae (Vii.2.25)
House Of The Silver Wedding
House Of The Silver Wedding
House Of The Surgeon
House Of The Surgeon
House Of The Wild Boar
House Of The Wild Boar
House Of Titus Terentius Neo
House Of Titus Terentius Neo
House Of Titus Terentius Proculus
House Of Titus Terentius Proculus
House Of Trebius Valens
House Of Trebius Valens
House (Viii.4.30)
House (Viii.4.30)
House (Viii.4.33)
House (Viii.4.33)
House (Viii.6.1)
House (Viii.6.1)
House (Viii.6.3)
House (Viii.6.3)
House (Viii.6.4)
House (Viii.6.4)
House (Viii.6.5)
House (Viii.6.5)
House (Viii.7.6)
House (Viii.7.6)
House With A Bakery (Vi.6.17)
House With A Bakery (Vi.6.17)
Inn Of The Gladiators
Inn Of The Gladiators
Little Theatre Of Pompeii
Little Theatre Of Pompeii
Lupanar
Lupanar
Macellum Of Pompeii
Macellum Of Pompeii
Mensa Ponderaria (Vii.7.31)
Mensa Ponderaria (Vii.7.31)
Necropolis Of Porta Nola
Necropolis Of Porta Nola
Officina Tinctoria Of Terentius
Officina Tinctoria Of Terentius
Palaestra Of The Iuvenes
Palaestra Of The Iuvenes
Pistrinum
Pistrinum
Pompeii Necropolis
Pompeii Necropolis
Pompeii Regio I Insula 10
Pompeii Regio I Insula 10
Pompeii Regio I Insula 9
Pompeii Regio I Insula 9
Pompeii Regio Viii Insula 2
Pompeii Regio Viii Insula 2
Porta Di Stabia
Porta Di Stabia
Porta Herculaneum
Porta Herculaneum
Porta Marina (Pompeii)
Porta Marina (Pompeii)
Porta Nocera Necropolis
Porta Nocera Necropolis
Porta Nola
Porta Nola
Porta Vesuvio
Porta Vesuvio
Porta Vesuvio Necropolis
Porta Vesuvio Necropolis
Public Administration Buildings
Public Administration Buildings
Region I Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region I Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Iii Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Iii Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Iv Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Iv Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Ix Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Ix Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region V Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region V Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Vi Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Vi Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Vii Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Vii Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Viii Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Region Viii Of The Archaeological Excavations Of Pompeii
Sarno Baths
Sarno Baths
Shop (Ix.2.2)
Shop (Ix.2.2)
Shop (Ix.2.3)
Shop (Ix.2.3)
Shop (Ix.6.F)
Shop (Ix.6.F)
Shop Of Aurelius
Shop Of Aurelius
Shop (Vi.10.10)
Shop (Vi.10.10)
Shop (Vi.10.12)
Shop (Vi.10.12)
Shop (Vi.14.15)
Shop (Vi.14.15)
Shop (Vi.8.13)
Shop (Vi.8.13)
Shop (Vii.5.25)
Shop (Vii.5.25)
Shop (Vii.5.3)
Shop (Vii.5.3)
Shop (Viii.4.19)
Shop (Viii.4.19)
Shop (Viii.4.20)
Shop (Viii.4.20)
Shop (Viii.4.21)
Shop (Viii.4.21)
Shop (Viii.4.25)
Shop (Viii.4.25)
Shop (Viii.4.39)
Shop (Viii.4.39)
Shop (Viii.5.25)
Shop (Viii.5.25)
Shop (Viii.5.30)
Shop (Viii.5.30)
Shop (Viii.6.8)
Shop (Viii.6.8)
Shop (Viii.7.11)
Shop (Viii.7.11)
Shop With Dwelling (Ii.3.8)
Shop With Dwelling (Ii.3.8)
Shop With Dwelling (Vii.4.22)
Shop With Dwelling (Vii.4.22)
Stabian Baths
Stabian Baths
Stable (Viii.4.42)
Stable (Viii.4.42)
Stables And Hospitium
Stables And Hospitium
Steps To Upper Floor (Vi.8.7)
Steps To Upper Floor (Vi.8.7)
Suburban Baths
Suburban Baths
Taberna Hedones (Vii.2.44)
Taberna Hedones (Vii.2.44)
Taberna Phoebi
Taberna Phoebi
Temple Of Apollo
Temple Of Apollo
Temple Of Asclepius
Temple Of Asclepius
Temple Of Jupiter
Temple Of Jupiter
The Garden Of The Fugitives
The Garden Of The Fugitives
Thermopolium
Thermopolium
Thermopolium (I.3.2)
Thermopolium (I.3.2)
Thermopolium (I.3.22)
Thermopolium (I.3.22)
Thermopolium I.7.8.
Thermopolium I.7.8.
Thermopolium (Vi.8.8)
Thermopolium (Vi.8.8)
Thermopolium (Vii.4.4)
Thermopolium (Vii.4.4)
Tomb Of Aesquillia Polla
Tomb Of Aesquillia Polla
Tomb Of Caius Vestorius Priscus
Tomb Of Caius Vestorius Priscus
Tomb Of Eumachia
Tomb Of Eumachia
Tomb Of Gnaeus Alleius Nigidius Maius
Tomb Of Gnaeus Alleius Nigidius Maius
Tomb Of Lucius Barbidius Communis And Pithia Rufilla, Acris, Aulus Dentatius Fortunatus, Aulus Dentatius Felix, Aulo Dentatio A. L. Celso, Pompeia Aucta, L. Barbidio Vitali, Vitalis, Ianuarius
Tomb Of Lucius Barbidius Communis And Pithia Rufilla, Acris, Aulus Dentatius Fortunatus, Aulus Dentatius Felix, Aulo Dentatio A. L. Celso, Pompeia Aucta, L. Barbidio Vitali, Vitalis, Ianuarius
Tomb Of Lucius Sepunius Sandilianus
Tomb Of Lucius Sepunius Sandilianus
Tomb Of Marcus Alleius Minius
Tomb Of Marcus Alleius Minius
Tomb Of Marcus Obellius Firmus
Tomb Of Marcus Obellius Firmus
Tomb Of Marcus Tullius
Tomb Of Marcus Tullius
Tomb Of Marcus Veius Marcellus
Tomb Of Marcus Veius Marcellus
Tomb Of Publius Flavius Philoxsenus And Flavia Agathea
Tomb Of Publius Flavius Philoxsenus And Flavia Agathea
Tomba Delle Ghirlande
Tomba Delle Ghirlande
Torre Di Mercurio
Torre Di Mercurio
Triangular Forum
Triangular Forum
Villa Delle Colonne A Mosaico
Villa Delle Colonne A Mosaico
Villa Of Diomedes
Villa Of Diomedes
Villa Of The Mysteries
Villa Of The Mysteries
Workshop
Workshop
Workshop And Stable Yard
Workshop And Stable Yard
Workshop (I.3.7)
Workshop (I.3.7)
Workshop Of Verus The Blacksmith
Workshop Of Verus The Blacksmith