What did it mean to be a woman in ancient times? This thought-provoking question lies at the heart of the upcoming exhibition “Being a Woman in Ancient Pompeii”, held at the Palestra Grande within the Pompeii Archaeological Park from April 16, 2025, to January 31, 2026. Through a curated display of daily life, societal roles, and cultural expressions, this immersive event explores how women of different classes and backgrounds lived, worked, and shaped Pompeian society.
Planning a visit to Pompeii? Make the most of your trip with a private transfer from Naples and join our expert-led guided tours to Pompeii. Travel comfortably and dive deeper into ancient history with a professional guide!
A unique window into the Female Experience
Unlike many ancient cities, Pompeii offers a remarkably preserved look into everyday life, making it a rare and valuable source for understanding the roles and realities of women in the Roman world. Thanks to the exceptional state of preservation and centuries of excavations, this exhibition presents not just the lives of elite women, but also those of freedwomen, slaves, and working-class individuals.
The Exhibition concept
Curated by Francesca Ghedini and Monica Salvadori, in collaboration with the Universities of Padua, Salerno, and Verona, the exhibit is divided into eight thematic sections. Visitors will journey through the phases of life from birth to death as they explore how different women contributed to the social, economic, and religious life of Pompeii.
What You’ll See
- Private and funerary portraits that reveal identity and status
- Wall paintings, inscriptions, and everyday objects
- Graffiti reflecting women’s presence in the public sphere
- Tools used in trades like weaving, baking, medicine, and even magic
Women across classes and roles
The exhibition sheds light on matronae (married women of high status), libertae (freedwomen), and slaves. It highlights how some women held significant power managing businesses, hosting banquets, and funding temples, while others toiled in humble or even exploitative roles.
Whether it was a midwife tending to births, a spinner producing textiles, or a vendor at the local market, the diversity of female occupations is illustrated with authentic artifacts, making their stories feel alive and relevant even today.
A Continuation of “The Other Pompeii”
This exhibition follows in the footsteps of the acclaimed “L’altra Pompei” (“The Other Pompeii”) exhibit, expanding its focus to explore female identities and experiences specifically. It’s not just about the elite, it’s about real people, in real homes, with authentic voices echoing through history.
Useful Information
Location: Palestra Grande, Pompeii Archaeological Park
Dates: April 16, 2025 – January 31, 2026
Curators: Francesca Ghedini, Monica Salvadori
In collaboration with: University of Padua, University of Salerno, University of Verona
Don’t Miss This Exhibition – Plan Your Visit Today
Whether you’re a history lover, a student of gender studies, or simply curious about daily life in Ancient Rome, “Being a Woman in Ancient Pompeii” is an unmissable exhibition that brings the voices of the past vividly to life.
For a seamless experience, avoid the stress of public transport by booking a private transfer from Naples. And if you want to explore Pompeii, Naples, or the Amalfi Coast in depth, don’t forget to check out our exclusive Campania guide tours.
