Shop VIII.4.19 Pompeii: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Shop VIII.4.19, located in the vibrant heart of ancient Pompeii, serves as a well-preserved testament to the city’s bustling commercial life and intricate social fabric. As one of the many tabernae lining Pompeii’s main thoroughfares, this shop offers a direct window into the rhythms of Roman daily life—where commerce, politics, and domesticity intersected. For visitors interested in archaeology, culture, or ancient history, Shop VIII.4.19 is a microcosm of Pompeii’s economic diversity and urban planning.

This comprehensive guide presents the historical context, visitor information, practical tips, and cultural insights necessary to enhance your exploration of Shop VIII.4.19 and its surroundings. Whether you plan to visit in person or virtually, understanding the site’s significance will deepen your appreciation of Pompeii’s enduring legacy (Pompeii Archaeological Park; Pompeii Perspectives; UNESCO).

Historical Context: Pompeii’s Urban and Economic Framework

The Rise of Pompeii

Flourishing near the Bay of Naples, Pompeii leveraged its strategic location to become a thriving commercial and agricultural hub. By the time of the eruption in 79 AD, the city boasted sophisticated urban planning, with well-paved streets, organized insulae (blocks), and a population estimated at 20,000 (Academia.edu; Visit Campania).

Commercial Life and Market Networks

Commerce was central to Pompeii’s prosperity. The city’s proximity to the sea enabled robust Mediterranean trade, with the forum acting as the epicenter for markets and transactions (World Travel Connector). Over 600 shops, bars, and workshops lined Pompeii’s main roads, especially Via Stabiana, providing goods and services to locals and visitors alike (PhD Essay; Pompeii in Pictures). Shops like VIII.4.19 often featured integrated living quarters, reflecting the close link between work and home in Roman society.

Agriculture and Social Stratification

Fertile volcanic soil supported thriving vineyards and olive groves, making wine and olive oil principal exports (The Excavations of Pompeii). The city’s social structure was mirrored in its built environment, with grand houses for elites and humble apartments above shops for artisans and merchants. Inscriptions and graffiti reveal the interplay between commerce, politics, and community life (Pompeii in Pictures).


Shop VIII.4.19: Structure, Function, and Archaeological Insights

Location and Urban Context

Shop VIII.4.19 occupies a prominent position on Via Stabiana within Regio VIII, Insula 4—a bustling area connecting the forum, amphitheater, and residential districts (Pompeii Perspectives). Its strategic siting highlights its importance for both commerce and social interaction.

Architectural Features

Typical of Pompeian tabernae, Shop VIII.4.19 features a wide, street-facing entrance, masonry counters, and rear rooms that may have served as storage or living quarters (Pompeii Archaeological Park). Evidence from excavations suggests the presence of storage dolia, wall niches, and possibly painted advertisements or electoral graffiti (Pompeii in Pictures).

Material Culture

Finds from the area include amphorae, scales, coins, and organic remains, indicating the sale of food and goods. Graffiti preserved on pilasters provides insights into advertising and political life, while wall paintings reflect the broader culture of Roman Pompeii (Berkley Center; Pompeii Excavations Guide).

Social and Economic Role

While the specific wares sold at Shop VIII.4.19 are unknown, its design and location suggest it could have been a food shop, tavern, or general store. Such establishments played a pivotal role in urban life, serving residents, travelers, and facilitating social mobility for freedmen and women who often owned or managed these businesses (Pompeii Archaeological Park).


Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Practical Tips

Visiting Hours

  • April–October: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (last entry: 5:30 PM)
  • November–March: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry: 3:30 PM)
  • Note: Hours may vary on holidays; always check the official website for updates.

Tickets and Entry

  • Standard adult: €16–€18
  • Discounted: EU citizens aged 18–25
  • Free: Under 18 and on the first Sunday of each month (expect crowds)
  • Purchase: Online in advance or at site entrances (Porta Marina, Piazza Esedra)
  • Entry includes: Access to Shop VIII.4.19 and all open areas of Pompeii

Accessibility

Pompeii’s ancient streets can be uneven. While accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers has improved, some locations, including Shop VIII.4.19, may still pose challenges. Consult the official accessibility map or inquire at the entrance.

Guided Tours and Resources

  • Guided tours: Highly recommended for context, especially with archaeologist guides (Italy Beyond the Obvious)
  • Self-guided: Use audio guides or mobile apps, such as Audiala or Discover Pompeii
  • Maps: Obtain at entrance or download official site maps for orientation

Comfort & Safety

  • Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes
  • Weather: Bring sun protection and water; carry a rain jacket in off-season
  • Behavior: Respect preservation rules—do not touch walls or frescoes, stay on paths, and avoid flash photography

Enhancing Your Visit

Experience and Interpretation

  • On-site signage: Limited; apps and audio guides enrich understanding
  • Nearby attractions: Forum, Temple of Apollo, Large Theater, Casa dei Postumii, and the National Archaeological Museum in Naples (Stories by Soumya)
  • Interactive tools: Virtual tours and digital maps are available via official and partner websites

Responsible Tourism

  • Respect site integrity for future generations
  • Follow all posted guidelines and staff instructions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the best times to visit Shop VIII.4.19?
A: Early morning (opening time) or late afternoon for fewer crowds. Off-season visits (November–April) offer a quieter experience (Untold Italy).

Q: Are guided tours necessary?
A: Not required but highly recommended for in-depth appreciation.

Q: Is Shop VIII.4.19 accessible with a general Pompeii ticket?
A: Yes, included in standard admission.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, but avoid flash and tripods in narrow areas.

Q: Are there restrooms and refreshments nearby?
A: Facilities are near main entrances and the forum area; options within the site are limited.


Conclusion and Recommendations

Shop VIII.4.19 is a compelling example of the everyday commercial and social life of ancient Pompeii. Its architecture, archaeological finds, and location offer invaluable insights into the city’s economic and cultural vibrancy. By planning your visit with attention to hours, ticketing, and practical advice, you can fully immerse yourself in Pompeii’s history. Enhance your experience with digital resources, guided tours, and responsible tourism practices.

For additional tips, downloadable maps, and interactive content, use the Audiala app and follow official Pompeii channels for the latest updates.


References & Further Information

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