Shop (Vi.14.15)

Shop VI.14.15 Pompeii: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Site Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Shop VI.14.15, nestled within the ancient streets of Pompeii, offers a rare and vivid window into Roman commercial life. Located in Regio VI, Insula 14, this well-preserved taberna (shop) provides visitors with insight into the economic, social, and architectural fabric of the city just before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This guide will equip you with essential information on the shop’s historical significance, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and practical tips, ensuring a rewarding and informed visit to one of Pompeii’s most evocative commercial spaces.

Introduction
Pompeii’s Urban Landscape and Commercial Life
Shop VI.14.15: History, Layout, and Function
Archaeological Discovery and Preservation
Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations
Sources and Further Reading

Pompeii’s Urban Landscape and Commercial Life

Pompeii’s cityscape is a testament to centuries of cultural evolution—from Oscan beginnings through Etruscan, Greek, and finally Roman dominance (Shea Gibson, 2017). The city’s urban grid, defined by decumanus (east-west) and cardo (north-south) axes, organized neighborhoods (insulae) where residential, commercial, and public spaces coexisted. Shops (tabernae) were fundamental to this urban plan, lining major roads like the Via dell’Abbondanza and clustering near focal points such as the Forum (Academia.edu, 2019).

These tabernae catered to a diverse clientele—locals, travelers, freedmen, and artisans—offering goods from food and drink to textiles and luxury items. Many shops, including VI.14.15, were integrated into residential buildings, illustrating the Roman tendency to blend commercial and domestic life.

Shop VI.14.15: History, Layout, and Function

Location and Urban Context

Shop VI.14.15 is situated in the northwestern sector of Pompeii, along a busy street in Insula 14 of Regio VI. Its prime location near main thoroughfares made it highly accessible and economically advantageous (quemdixerechaos.com).

Architectural Features

Facade: A wide entrance flanked by pilasters, with a prominent painted sign depicting pitchers—likely advertising oil or wine.
Interior: A single, utilitarian room, optimized for displaying and selling goods. The absence of elaborate wall decorations suggests a focus on function over luxury.
Substructure: The northwest corner features a lower level, accessed by trapdoor or stairs, used for storage.
Signage and Graffiti: Painted advertisements and red-letter graffiti referencing gladiatorial games highlight the intertwining of commerce and social life.

Function

Archaeological evidence, including the painted pitchers and embedded dolia (large storage jars), indicates Shop VI.14.15 likely operated as a bar or shop selling oil and wine. The practical layout and storage facilities underscore its commercial purpose (Academia.edu, 2019).

Archaeological Discovery and Preservation

First excavated in 1960 and further studied in the early 2000s, Shop VI.14.15 has yielded valuable insights despite earlier disturbances. Conservation efforts have preserved key features, including painted signage and graffiti, while advances in non-invasive archaeological techniques continue to enhance understanding and protect the site for future generations (The Archaeologist, 2021).

Visitor Information

Location and Access

Shop VI.14.15 is located in Regio VI, Insula 14, doorway 15. It is easily reached from main entrances, including Porta Marina and Piazza Esedra. Visitors should use the official Pompeii site map or on-site signage to navigate the ancient street system.

Visiting Hours

Pompeii Archaeological Park is open daily, with seasonal hours:

April 1 – October 31: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
November 1 – March 31: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM)
Closed: January 1, May 1, December 25 (Official Hours)

Shop VI.14.15 is visible from the street during these hours, though interior access may be restricted for preservation.

Tickets and Pricing

Standard ticket: €18–€22 (includes access to Pompeii and some suburban villas)
Reduced: €2 for EU citizens aged 18–25
Free entry: Under 18, and select groups; first Sunday of each month
Annual pass (MyPompeii card): €35 (€8 for under 25s)

Tickets are nominative; ID required at entry. Booking online via the official site is strongly recommended due to visitor caps.

Accessibility

Pompeii’s ancient streets pose challenges, but the “Pompeii for All” accessible route from Piazza Anfiteatro offers improved pathways, ramps, and facilities (Pompeii Accessibility). Shop VI.14.15 is nearby but may have threshold steps and uneven paving; sturdy shoes are essential.

Facilities and Services

Restrooms: Located at main entrances and within the park.
Bookshops and Souvenirs: At Piazza Esedra and the Antiquarium; official shops support site preservation (Tourist Secrets).
Cafés and Water Fountains: Distributed throughout the park; bring a refillable bottle.
Luggage: Only small bags allowed (Bag Policy).
Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages; strongly recommended for deeper insight (Guide Pompeii Tours).

Practical Tips

Arrive early or visit late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear.
Carry water, sun protection, and a hat—most areas are uncovered.
Photography of the exterior is permitted; flash and tripods may be restricted.
Respect site rules: stay on marked paths, do not touch artifacts, and report any damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Shop VI.14.15?
A: It can be viewed from the street during park opening hours, with interior access restricted for conservation.

Q: How do I buy Pompeii tickets?
A: Purchase online at the official Pompeii site or at main entrances; online booking is advised.

Q: Is Shop VI.14.15 wheelchair accessible?
A: The surrounding area is accessible via the “Pompeii for All” route, but the shop itself may have steps and uneven paving.

Q: Are guided tours available for Shop VI.14.15?
A: Yes, many guided tours include stops and discussions about the shop and Pompeii’s commercial life.

Q: Can I bring children to Pompeii?
A: Yes; family-friendly tours are available, though supervision is needed due to uneven terrain.

Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

Shop VI.14.15 exemplifies the dynamic commercial and social life of ancient Pompeii. Through its architectural features, painted signage, and strategic location, it offers a tangible link to the city’s bustling economic heart. Modern management ensures accessibility, preservation, and a rewarding experience for all visitors. For the best visit, plan ahead: book tickets online, consult the official site for updates, and consider a guided tour for historical depth.

Explore adjacent highlights in Regio VI—such as the House of the Faun and the Forum—for a fuller appreciation of Pompeii’s urban tapestry. Support conservation by respecting site rules, purchasing souvenirs from official shops, and sharing your experience responsibly.