Tomb Of Caius Vestorius Priscus

Tomb of Caius Vestorius Priscus, Pompeii: Complete Visiting Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Overview

The Tomb of Caius Vestorius Priscus is one of Pompeii’s most significant funerary monuments, offering a rare and vivid insight into the social structure, civic values, and funerary customs of 1st-century CE Roman society. Located in the necropolis outside Porta Vesuvio on the Via dei Sepolcri, this tomb not only honors a young aedile who died in office but also encapsulates the broader practices of commemoration and public honor in Pompeii. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the tomb’s history, its architectural and cultural significance, and essential practical information for visitors, including ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Caius Vestorius Priscus: Life and Commemoration

Caius Vestorius Priscus died at just 22 years old while serving as an aedile—a public official charged with maintaining order, organizing games, and overseeing public buildings. His untimely death was met with an exceptional honor: the town’s decurions (city councillors) granted a burial plot and 2,000 sesterces for funeral expenses, a testament to his and his family’s high standing (Pompeii Numismatica dello Stato). The tomb was erected by his mother, Mulvia Prisca, blending public commemoration with private devotion.

Inscription

“To Caius Vestorius Priscus, Aedile. He lived 22 years. His burial place was granted along with 2,000 sesterces for his funeral by decree of the town councillors. Mulvia Prisca, his mother, set this up at her own expense.”
(Pompeii in Pictures)

This epitaph embodies the interplay between public recognition and familial memory typical of Roman funerary customs.

The Necropolis at Porta Vesuvio

Roman law forbade burials within city walls, so Pompeii’s necropolises lined the roads outside its gates. The placement of Vestorius Priscus’s tomb on a well-traveled route reinforced social status and ensured lasting visibility (Planet Pompeii). The necropolis itself features a diverse array of funerary monuments, from modest graves to grand mausoleums, reflecting the city’s social stratification.

Architectural Features and Art

The tomb is constructed from local tufa stone and features a prominent base, decorated altars, and a funerary chamber adorned with paintings of banquets—central to Roman commemorative tradition (Rome Art Lover). Sculptural reliefs and painted scenes within the tomb evoke themes of celebration, memory, and the afterlife. Niches for urns and offerings highlight the importance of ancestor veneration. Artifacts uncovered from the tomb, such as vases with putti harvesting grapes or playing instruments, further illustrate the artistic sophistication and social aspirations of Pompeii’s elite.

Practical Visitor Information

Location & How to Get There

Address: Via dei Sepolcri, Pompeii Archaeological Park, 80045 Pompeii, Italy
Nearest Entrance: Porta Vesuvio or Herculaneum Gate (Porta Ercolano)
Directions: From the main entrances (Porta Marina or Piazza Anfiteatro), follow signage or a site map to the necropolis area. The tomb is a 20–30 minute walk from the main forum (The Geographical Cure).

Pompeii is easily accessible by train (Circumvesuviana line, Pompeii Scavi–Villa dei Misteri station) or bus from Naples and Sorrento.

Opening Hours

Summer (April 1 – October 31): 9:00 am – 7:00 pm (last entry 5:30 pm)
Winter (November 1 – March 31): 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (last entry 3:30 pm)
Closed: Christmas, New Year’s Day, and occasionally May 1 (Helen on Her Holidays)

Tickets and Admission

General Admission: €16–€18 for adults
Discounts: Reduced rates for EU citizens under 25; free for children under 18
Best Practice: Buy tickets online in advance to skip queues (Pompeii Sites)
Includes: Access to all open areas, including the necropolis and tomb

Guided Tours & Audio Guides

Guided Tours: Highly recommended for in-depth context; book online or at the entrance
Audio Guides: Available in multiple languages
Self-Guided Options: Use the Audiala app or official Pompeii app for interactive content

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Partial; uneven cobblestones and ancient paving present challenges. Main routes are being improved, but some assistance may be required (Time Travel Turtle).
Facilities: Restrooms and refreshments near main entrances; limited amenities in the necropolis

Travel Tips for Visiting

Footwear: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for uneven terrain (World Travel Connector)
Weather: Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water—there is little shade in the necropolis
Maps: Pick up a site map at the entrance or download one in advance
Photography: Permitted for personal use; professional equipment may require permission (Pompeii Sites Visitor Regulations)
Respect: Do not touch or climb on ancient structures

What Else to See Nearby

Villa of the Mysteries: Famous for its frescoes; close to the necropolis
The Forum: Pompeii’s civic heart
House of the Vettii: Renowned for its art and architecture
Amphitheater: One of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheaters
Mount Vesuvius National Park: Offers hiking and panoramic views

Special Events and Experiences

Pompeii occasionally offers evening tours or exhibitions, including moonlight access to the necropolis with expert commentary (Rome on Foot). Check the official events calendar for the latest information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours for the Tomb of Caius Vestorius Priscus?
A: The tomb is accessible during Pompeii’s site hours—9:00 am–7:00 pm in summer, 9:00 am–5:00 pm in winter (check for seasonal updates).

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online via the official website.

Q: Is the tomb wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility is partial; some assistance may be needed due to uneven surfaces.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, both guided tours and audio guides are available.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, for personal use. Professional equipment may require permission.

Safety and Visitor Conduct

Stay on Marked Paths: To protect both yourself and the archaeological remains
Hydration: Summer temperatures can exceed 35°C (95°F)
Security: Keep valuables secure; be alert in crowded areas

Summary and Visitor Tips

The Tomb of Caius Vestorius Priscus is a key monument that brings to life the themes of public honor, family devotion, and Roman funerary art. As one of the best-preserved tombs in Pompeii’s necropolis, it provides a direct connection to the city’s vibrant civic life and social hierarchies. With ongoing archaeological research and modern visitor facilities, the site is accessible and rewarding for all visitors. By planning ahead—considering hours, ticketing, guided tours, and travel tips—you can make your visit both comfortable and enriching.