The Casa della Fontana Piccola (House of the Small Fountain) in Pompeii will reopen to the public on 21 November, following extensive restoration.
This event marks the beginning of the fourth edition of Telling the Construction Sites, an initiative allowing MyPompeii Card holders exclusive access to ongoing restoration and enhancement projects within the Archaeological Park. Visits will take place every Thursday at 10:30 am until 17th April 2025.
The House of the Small Fountain, situated along Via di Mercurio, provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its former owner. From the entrance, visitors can admire the garden’s stunning fountain, adorned with colourful mosaics, shells, and replicas of bronze statues of a fisherman and a Cupid. The peristyle’s frescoed walls, featuring expansive landscapes and maritime city scenes, further reflect the artistry and tastes of the era.
The recent restoration focused on structural reinforcements and the preservation of the domus’s historic elements. The concrete beams in the main atrium were strengthened using modern FRP materials, and the atrium’s roof was fully replaced. Additional work included the revision of the peristyle roofing to shield it from weather damage, waterproofing flat surfaces to prevent water infiltration, and safeguarding the decorative elements of the peristyle to maintain their integrity.
Beyond the House of the Small Fountain, the programme will highlight 20 other significant restoration sites, such as the Baths of the Forum, the Necropolis of Porta Stabia, the House of the Atrium, and the Insula Occidentalis. Pompeii visitors can expect expert-led tours, offering insights into the meticulous processes of excavation, conservation, and restoration.
