Contents

Exploring passion and pleasure in Pompeii's brothels

Pompeii Tickets & ToursPompeii Brothels

What are Pompeii Brothels?

The Lupanar of Pompeii, a Roman brothel preserved impeccably after Mount Vesuvius' eruption in 79 AD, provides a rare insight into ancient Pompeii's sex trade. This two-story building, boasting ten rooms with stone beds and erotic frescoes, was frequented by men from various social classes, and offered employment opportunities for women.

Pompeii Brothels Quick Facts

Pompeii Brothels
  • Official name: Lupanar of Pompeii
  • Location/Address: 80045 Pompeii, NA, Italy
  • Timings: Daily 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Why Visit Pompeii Brothels

Pompeii Brothels
  • Historical taboos unveiled: The Lupanar of Pompeii offers a rare glimpse into the world of ancient Roman brothels, allowing visitors to explore a controversial yet intriguing aspect of Pompeii's history.
  • Well-preserved erotica: Witness explicit and remarkably preserved wall paintings that provide a candid look at the erotic artistry of the time, shedding light on Roman attitudes towards sexuality.
  • Architectural curiosities: Discover the layout of the Lupanar, with its small rooms featuring stone beds and inscriptions that reveal the names of the women who worked there, offering insights into the daily lives of sex workers.
  • Insights into women’s societal position: It was also a place where women could work to support themselves and their families. The prostitutes in the Lupanar were typically slaves or freed slaves, and they were often subject to abuse and exploitation. 
  • Cultural perspective: Explore the nuanced attitudes toward sex and desire in Roman society, challenging modern preconceptions and fostering a deeper appreciation of historical contexts.

What's Inside Pompeii Brothels?

Pompeii Brothels

Erotic frescoes

The walls of the Lupanar are decorated with a variety of erotic frescoes, which depict a variety of sexual positions and activities. The frescoes are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the sexual attitudes and practices of the ancient Romans.

Pompeii Brothels

Stone beds

Each of the ten rooms in the Lupanar has a stone bed. The beds are simple and unadorned, but they are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the physical space where prostitution took place.

Pompeii Brothels

Small windows

Each of the ten rooms in the Lupanar has a small window. The windows are too small for people to climb through, but they would have allowed light and ventilation into the rooms.

Pompeii Brothels

Phallic symbols

The Lupanar is decorated with a number of phallic symbols, which are symbols of fertility and male sexuality. The phallic symbols are a reminder of the purpose of the Lupanar, which was to provide sexual services to men.




How To Buy Pompeii Tickets?

Pompeii Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.
Guided tour
More details
from
€36.75
Pompeii Tickets
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
More details
from
€22.80
Combo (Save 8%): Pompeii + Herculaneum Tickets
Mobile ticket
More details
from
€36.86
Pompeii Tickets with Official Audio Guide
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Audio guide
More details
from
€30.80

Frequently Asked Questions About Pompeii Brothels

What are the Pompeii Brothels?

The Pompeii Brothels, also known as the Lupanare of Pompeii, is a Roman brothel that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It is the most well-preserved brothel in the ancient world, and it offers a unique glimpse into the sex trade in Pompeii.

Where can I buy Pompeii Brothels tickets?

You can buy Pompeii Brothels tickets at the Pompeii Archaeological Park ticket office or online in advance.

Can I visit Pompeii Brothels with Pompeii tickets?

Yes, Pompeii Brothels tickets are included in the Pompeii Archaeological Park ticket price.

What’s inside the Pompeii Brothels?

The Pompeii Brothels is a two-story building with ten rooms, each of which has a stone bed and a small window. The walls of the Pompeii Brothels are decorated with erotic frescoes, which depict a variety of sexual positions and activities.

What can I do at the Pompeii Brothels?

You can take a guided or self-guided tour of the Pompeii Brothels. You can also learn about ancient Roman culture and architecture from the Pompeii Brothels and its contents. You can see some of the most well-preserved erotic frescoes from the ancient world at the Pompeii Brothels. And you can experience the atmosphere of an ancient Roman brothel by walking the rooms and hallways of the Pompeii Brothels.

What are the timings of the Pompeii Brothels?

The Pompeii Brothels are open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The time may differ seasonally, so it is recommended that you inquire before visiting.

Where are the Pompeii Brothels located?

The Pompeii Brothels are located in the Pompeii Archaeological Park, which is situated on the west coast of Italy, about 14 miles (23 kilometers) southeast of Naples.

Are the Pompeii Brothels wheelchair accessible?

Most of the Pompeii Brothels are wheelchair accessible. However, some of the rooms have narrow doorways and steps, so it is best to check with the Pompeii Archaeological Park staff before visiting.

Is photography allowed at the Pompeii Brothels?

Yes, photography is allowed at the Pompeii Brothels. However, flash photography is not allowed.

Is there a dress code for visiting the Pompeii Brothels?

There is no specific dress code for visiting the Pompeii Brothels. However, it is important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.

What is the best time to visit the Pompeii brothels?

The best time to visit the Pompeii brothels is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. The summer months can be very hot and crowded, so it is best to avoid them if possible.

More Reads

Pompeii Brothels Timings

Timings

About Pompeii Brothels

About

Plan your visit to Pompeii Brothels

Plan your visit