In ancient Campania, two notable cities, Pompeii and Herculaneum, stood amidst the fertile volcanic plains stretching from the Voltuno River to the Sorrentine Peninsula. Pompeii was elevated on a volcanic spur overlooking the Sarno River, while Herculaneum was nestled on a steep spur flanked by deep ravines. This region was dominated by Mount Vesuvius, a towering volcano known for its fertile soils that birthed diverse vegetation and supported agriculture, notably viticulture. The coastal location of these cities ensured a bounty of seafood and the production of renowned fish sauce, garum. The urban layout of Pompeii followed a grid pattern, punctuated by seven entry gates and main streets like Via Stabiana. Water infrastructure was advanced, with aqueducts supplying water to the town. Herculaneum, discovered in 1709, remains partially excavated, but it’s bathhouses and coastal boatsheds reveal glimpses of its former grandeur. However, the historical reliability of these cities is compromised due to inconsistent archaeological practices and the lack of firsthand accounts. The AD 79 eruption of Vesuvius remains the most defining event, with the two cities experiencing different stages of devastation. The economy of these cities was anchored in agriculture, fishing, wine, and oil industries, with local trades spanning bakeries to cloth manufacturing. While social structures and daily life thrived, the eruption that brought their untimely end preserved their stories for posterity.