The citharist's house

The House of the Citharist, located in the Regio I neighborhood on Insula 4 in the ancient city of Pompeii, is a fascinating archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the daily life of the residents of this ancient Roman city. The house gets its name from the statue of Apollo Citharist, a musical deity, which was found in the lower peristyle of the residence. Although the original statue is now housed in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, a copy has been placed in its original location within the house for visitors to admire.

Spanning over 50 rooms and covering an impressive area of 2,700 square meters, the House of the Citharist is one of the largest residences in Pompeii, occupying almost an entire city block. The house was originally constructed in the 1st century BC by merging two separate houses, resulting in a complex layout with three entrances, two atriums, and three porches. It even boasted amenities such as baths, a bakery, a pastry shop, and a tavern, showcasing the luxurious lifestyle of its former inhabitants.

One of the most striking features of the house is its central peristyle, which houses a pool surrounded by bronze sculptures of various animals, including a lion, a wild boar being attacked by dogs, a deer, and a snake. These sculptures were equipped with fountain jets that created stunning water displays, adding to the grandeur of the residence. Additionally, the main courtyard of the house featured a semicircular pool lined with marble and adorned with bronze statues of a wild boar, a lion, a deer, and a snake, all connected to water pipes for spouting water.

The House of the Citharist offers a unique insight into the architectural and artistic prowess of the ancient Romans, with its intricate layout and elaborate decorations showcasing the wealth and sophistication of its former occupants. The house is believed to have been owned by members of the Popidii family, who were former slaves, as evidenced by graffiti and political slogans found on the facade of the building. Visitors to Pompeii can explore this remarkable site and marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and design that have stood the test of time, providing a window into the rich history of this ancient city.