The renowned English playwright, William Shakespeare, wrote “Julius Caesar,” a stage play that depicted the rise of Julius ...

But for archaeologists and present-day visitors, the real thrill of Pompeii is that the most mundane aspects of ancient Roman life have been preserved for centuries beneath fine-grained volcanic ash.

He returned to Rome in 60 BC and, the following year, was elected consul, the highest office in the republic. Now holding real power, Caesar allied himself with two key people, Pompey and Crassus.

Founded during the rule of Julius Caesar—one of Rome’s most renowned leaders—Neapolis rose to prominence after aligning with him in his conflict against Pompey. As a reward, the city was ...

He returned to Rome in 60 BC and, the following year, was elected consul, the highest office in the republic. Now holding real power, Caesar allied himself with two key people, Pompey and Crassus.