The train ride from Piano di Sorrento to Pompeii is easy and direct. The views from the windows are breathtaking, and when you arrive you are at the entrance to Pompeii. With my interest in how people structure society, Pompeii leaves a lasting impression of how sophisticated a society could be in AD 79 (before the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius). Examples of this sophistication are abundant, including the physical layout of the city, recreational spaces, wall paintings, burial areas, tile floors, water-holding areas, temples, gardens, businesses, a luxury villa/hotel, brothels, baths and more. I was especially taken with the large playing area with a swimming pool designed for the youth, since historically the interests and needs of youth are not always built into the physical structure of a city (photo below).

    -Amy