This podcast episode explores the historical significance and devastating impact of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79, with a focus on the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Through a combination of archaeological evidence and eyewitness accounts, the episode reconstructs the events leading up to the eruption and describes the harrowing experiences of those caught in its path. The eruption transformed the landscape, burying entire towns and leaving a lasting impact on the region. The episode also highlights the profound effect of the eruption on Roman beliefs and the ongoing fascination with the archaeology of Pompeii and Herculaneum.