Vesuvius Day

Vesuvius Day is traditionally observed on August 24. This dramatic day is dedicated to the natural disaster that occurred in 79 AD, when the settlements at the foot of Mount Vesuvius were buried under streams of volcanic gases, ash, and rock fragments. Approximately 16,000 people lost their lives in the eruption, unable to leave their cities in time.

History

The date of Vesuvius Day is associated with the day of the volcanic eruption. In 79 AD, several settlements at the foot of Mount Vesuvius—including Pompeii, Herculaneum, Stabiae, and Oplontis—were buried under volcanic debris when Vesuvius erupted. The eruption claimed the lives of about 16,000 people. The city of Misenum, near Naples, narrowly escaped the same fate.

Interesting Facts

Recent research suggests that Vesuvius Day is incorrectly observed on August 24. In 2018, scientists discovered a charcoal inscription on a wall in Pompeii reading “16 days before the calends of November,” which is the Roman way of writing October 17. This, along with evidence that the harvest had already ended and that victims wore warmer clothing than typical for August, suggests the eruption likely happened in mid-October.

How to Take Part

To mark Vesuvius Day, watch films about the eruption such as The Last Days of Pompeii (1926), Pompeii (2014), or episodes from the fourth season of Doctor Who (2008). You can also read books or articles to learn more about this historic natural disaster.

When is Vesuvius Day in 2025?

Vesuvius Day is observed on August 24 each year.

Observations