Ancient Pompeii House Plan

Exploring the Ancient Pompeii House Plan: Unveiling the Domestic Life of a Roman City

Imagine stepping into the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii, a vibrant city frozen in time by a catastrophic volcanic eruption in 79 AD. Among the many fascinating discoveries made within this archaeological treasure trove are the remains of numerous houses, providing invaluable insights into the domestic life of ancient Romans.

Layout and Structure

Pompeian houses were typically built around an open central courtyard known as an atrium. This open space served as a focal point for the house, providing natural light and ventilation. The atrium was often surrounded by a covered walkway (porticus) that led to various rooms. The main living quarters were typically located on the ground floor, including the cubiculum (bedroom), tablinum (study), triclinium (dining room), and culina (kitchen). These rooms were often adorned with frescoes, mosaics, and other decorative elements that reflected the wealth and status of the homeowners. Upper floors, if any, were generally used for storage or as living quarters for slaves and servants.

Specific Room Functions

Cubiculum (Bedroom):

The cubiculum was a small, private room used for sleeping. It often contained a bed, a chest, and a lamp. *

Tablinum (Study):

This room served as a study or office, where the owner of the house could conduct business and receive guests. *

Triclinium (Dining Room):

The triclinium was a rectangular room where the family would gather for meals. It featured a dining table surrounded by three couches (lectus tricliniaris) where guests would recline while eating. *

Culina (Kitchen):

The culina was a simple and functional space used for cooking and food preparation. It typically contained a hearth, a sink, and various cooking utensils.

Private and Public Spheres

Pompeian houses were designed to separate public and private spaces. The atrium and tablinum were considered public areas used for entertaining guests and conducting business. In contrast, the cubiculum, triclinium, and culina were private spaces reserved for the family and household members.

Architectural Styles

The houses of Pompeii varied in size and architectural styles, reflecting the social hierarchy of the city. Wealthy homeowners constructed elaborate mansions with multiple courtyards, gardens, and decorative features. More modest houses belonged to ordinary citizens and featured simpler layouts with fewer amenities.

Pompeii's House Plan: A Window into the Past

By studying the house plans of Pompeii, we gain a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the ancient Romans. From the grand mansions of the wealthy elite to the humble homes of ordinary citizens, these ruins tell a compelling story about the social structures, domestic arrangements, and cultural practices of a long-lost society.