Bakery of Popidius Priscus
Step back in time at the Bakery of Popidius Priscus, a remarkably preserved Roman bakery frozen by Vesuvius's eruption.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Bakery of Popidius Priscus
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Bakery of Popidius Priscus, a remarkably preserved Roman bakery frozen by Vesuvius's eruption.
"Been waiting for this to open again for 1,944 years. Real shame, the owner, Modestus, was such a good baker."
⏳ Historical Wait Time
Embrace the '2000-year wait' with a smile! It's part of the unique charm of visiting this ancient site.
🧼 Hygiene Reminder
Wash your hands before exploring! It's a quirky reminder for preserving this ancient space.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Carbonized Loaves
Oven
See loaves of bread preserved from the moment of the Vesuvius eruption, a poignant snapshot of daily Roman life.
Milling Cones
Grinding area
Observe the ancient milling cones used to grind grain, showcasing the sophisticated food production methods of the time.
Preserved Oven
Baking area
The intact oven itself is a testament to Roman engineering and a central piece of this fascinating archaeological find.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Pompeii's Bakery
Respecting the Ancient Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Historical Wait Time
Embrace the '2000-year wait' with a smile! It's part of the unique charm of visiting this ancient site.
🧼 Hygiene Reminder
Wash your hands before exploring! It's a quirky reminder for preserving this ancient space.
🧐 Look for Details
Don't miss the other interesting bakeries in Pompeii, even if they lack clear identification.
🍞 Imagine the Aroma
Picture the 'Super Croissants!' and imagine the bustling atmosphere of this ancient Roman bakery.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Historical Wait Time
Embrace the '2000-year wait' with a smile! It's part of the unique charm of visiting this ancient site.
🧼 Hygiene Reminder
Wash your hands before exploring! It's a quirky reminder for preserving this ancient space.
🧐 Look for Details
Don't miss the other interesting bakeries in Pompeii, even if they lack clear identification.
🍞 Imagine the Aroma
Picture the 'Super Croissants!' and imagine the bustling atmosphere of this ancient Roman bakery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Bakery of Popidius Priscus a uniquely preserved and fascinating glimpse into Roman daily life, especially the carbonized loaves. While the 'wait time' is a humorous nod to its age, some find the site a bit run-down and wish for more context or preservation efforts.
"Been waiting for this to open again for 1,944 years. Real shame, the owner, Modestus, was such a good baker. Also, the establishment seems a bit run down, perhaps some renovation could do..."
Elia Boccardi
"wait time of about 2000 years but worthwhile. Please wash your hands before touching the counter and the milling cones."
colo capacco
"The owner was absent, locals told me that they are on burn out leave or something
The place is pretty cozy though"
Aleksandr Tarasov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bakery of Popidius Priscus is located within the archaeological site of Pompeii. You'll need to purchase an entrance ticket to Pompeii and then navigate to the bakery within the ruins. Many visitors arrive by train to Pompeii Scavi station, which is conveniently located near the main entrance.
While Pompeii is a vast site, the Bakery of Popidius Priscus is a well-documented and often-visited location. Look for signage within the ruins, or consult a map of the archaeological park.
Many visitors opt for guided tours which can efficiently lead you to key sites like the bakery. Alternatively, using a good map and planning your route beforehand is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Bakery of Popidius Priscus is part of the main Pompeii archaeological site. Your general admission ticket to Pompeii grants access to all open areas, including the bakery.
Pompeii's opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Pompeii archaeological park website for the most up-to-date information on hours and any potential closures.
Standard admission tickets are available. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
While the site is generally open during Pompeii's operating hours, specific areas can sometimes be closed for restoration or maintenance. It's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures before your visit.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can see the remarkably preserved oven, carbonized loaves of bread still inside, and the milling cones used for grinding grain. It offers a vivid look at Roman baking.
It's crucial to avoid touching any of the ancient structures or artifacts. These are delicate historical remains, and touching can cause damage.
Pompeii is an ancient site with uneven terrain. While efforts are made for accessibility, some areas, including potentially the bakery, might present challenges. Check with the site management for specific accessibility information.
Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes at the bakery, taking in the details and imagining the past. It's a focused exhibit within the larger Pompeii experience.
The primary experience is observational, allowing you to witness the preserved state of the bakery. The 'interactive' element comes from imagining the daily life and activities that took place there.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in most of Pompeii, including the bakery. However, always be mindful of any specific signage and avoid using flash photography, which can damage ancient materials.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer, more atmospheric lighting. Visiting during these times can also help you avoid crowds, making for better photos.
Focus on capturing the details of the carbonized loaves in the oven and the texture of the milling stones. The overall preservation of the space itself is a key photographic subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While touching is prohibited, discussing the milling cones and how they were used can be a great educational moment. Comparing ancient baking methods to modern ones can make the experience relatable. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as exploring Pompeii can be tiring for younger visitors.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Consider researching the history of Roman bakeries and their social significance before your visit. This will deepen your appreciation for the site. The fact that this bakery was found with loaves still in the oven is a rare and significant archaeological find that offers unparalleled insight into the final moments of Pompeii.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Eruption and Its Preservation
Archaeologists have meticulously excavated and studied these sites, piecing together the daily lives of Pompeii's inhabitants. The bakery, in particular, offers insights into Roman culinary practices, the importance of bread in their diet, and the economic activities of the city. The presence of multiple bakeries within Pompeii suggests a thriving community with a significant demand for freshly baked goods.
Visiting the Bakery of Popidius Priscus is more than just seeing ruins; it's about connecting with a tangible piece of history. The ability to stand in the same space where bakers worked millennia ago, and to see the very bread they were preparing, is an incredibly powerful experience that brings the ancient world to life.
Roman Baking Technology
Adjacent to the ovens, you'll find the milling cones (or querns). These were essential for grinding grain into flour. Typically made of stone, one cone would rotate against a stationary one, crushing the grain. The efficiency of these mills directly impacted the quality and quantity of flour available for baking. The presence of these tools highlights the self-sufficiency and ingenuity of Roman food production.
Beyond the ovens and mills, the bakery would have also contained storage areas for grain and flour, as well as workspaces for kneading dough. The layout and preserved elements of bakeries like Popidius Priscus provide invaluable data for understanding Roman industrial processes and the daily routines of ordinary citizens.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit