The National Museum of Australia is gearing up to host a groundbreaking exhibition that will transport visitors to the fateful moments leading up to the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Pompeii, a multisensory exhibition like no other, will open on 13 December, offering an unparalleled glimpse into life in the ancient city that was buried under volcanic ash nearly 2,000 years ago.
Through an immersive combination of soundscapes, large-scale digital projections, and a collection of over 90 objects, this exhibition brings Pompeii’s vibrant streets, homes, and people back to life. Visitors will experience everything from frescoes and mosaics to jewellery and sculptures, with key items handpicked from recent archaeological excavations.
One of the exhibition’s most captivating features is a 360-degree recreation of Mount Vesuvius’ eruption, scheduled to occur every 15 minutes. This dramatic display will place viewers in the heart of the disaster, enveloped by the sounds and visuals of the volcanic eruption.
Katherine McMahon, Director of the National Museum of Australia, expressed her excitement about the exhibition’s debut, describing it as a rare opportunity for Australians and international visitors alike. “This is the first time Australians will be able to experience Pompeii like never before,” she said. “It’s a story that continues to evolve with new archaeological discoveries, and now visitors can explore the ancient city in a way that blends history with modern technology.”
The exhibition, an exclusive collaboration with the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, the Grand Palais in France, and Gedeon Experiences, marks the first time that such a display has come to the Southern Hemisphere. It promises to offer a fresh perspective on one of history’s most iconic tragedies.
National Museum Curator Dr Lily Withycombe, who personally selected many of the artefacts, highlighted the recent discoveries showcased in the exhibition. “In the last six years alone, excavations have revealed extraordinary finds, including frescoes, graffiti, and objects that give us a deeper understanding of everyday life in Pompeii.”
Among the items on display are sculptures, pieces of architecture, and everyday objects like cookware and tweezers. These offer a poignant connection to the lives of Pompeii’s residents before disaster struck, allowing visitors to see the humanity behind the historical ruins.
This exhibition, running until 4 May 2025, is set to be an unforgettable journey through time, where ancient Pompeii meets contemporary storytelling, all within the heart of Canberra.
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