Modern-day Pompei (Pompeii) may feel like a nondescript satellite of Naples, but you'll find Europe's most compelling archaeological site here: the ruins of Pompeii. Sprawling and haunting, the site is a stark reminder of the destructive forces that lie deep inside Vesuvius. The house originally contained more than twenty painted and mosaic panels, six of which have been relocated to the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.

Casa del Poeta Tragico (House of the Tragic Poet), dating to the 2nd century BCE, is famous for its elaborate mosaic floors and frescoes depicting scenes from Greek mythology. The vestibule floor of the House was decorated with a mosaic picture of the world's first-known 'beware of the dog' – "CAVE CANEM" – warnings. On the wall was a panel depicts a scene from the story of Admetus and Alcestis. It's believed this painting depicted a poet reciting his poetry, resulting in the name House of the Tragic Poet.

Arco di Caligola (Arch of Caligula) is set astride Via di Mercurio, of which it marks the beginning, and in front of the Forum Bath. This is an honorary arch and its attribution to Caligula is based on an equestrian statue in bronze, which must have originally been set on the attic and has been identified as Caligula. The arch was built on the same axis as the arch attributed to Tiberius or Germanicus, which constitutes a monumental entrance to the Civil Forum.