A Green Ring for Ancient Pompeii

The new masterplan of the “Green Ring” of Pompeii, promoted by the Ministry of Culture and the Pompeii Archaeological Park and co-financed by Ministry of Culture, rethink the entire ring outside the ancient city that still lies within the perimeter of the Archaeological Park just outside the historic walls (extramoenia).

The ring connects a number of existing green areas and intervenes on the areas of the necropolis that are outside the gates of ancient Pompeii. The masterplan enhances the viewpoints that overlook the archaeological site on one side and/or on the other the landscape features, like the Vesuvio, the bay or the rural areas.

They have proposed a landscape reinterpretation of a path of about 4 kilometers of a linear development, which will be a linking hinge between the ancient city of Pompeii and its rural and landscape context.

Focusing on the uniqueness and excellence of the site, the project aims to preserve the natural “character” and historical memory of the place, e.g., reintroducing the cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) a typical columnar tree that characterized the rural landscape since the Roman age. Architecture, vegetation elements and interesting views were emphasized as much as possible. The design approach was respectful of the pre-existing historic and landscape value with a focus on inclusivity and functional use of the area.

The maintenance of existing shrubs and trees, combined with the introduction of new species and furnishings, have in fact helped to ensure the area’s smoother usability. Specifically, the traces of historical paths were recovered and included in a coherent design of a public park.

New pedestrian walkways are designed, in rigorous geometrical shapes as the ancient city streets, to make more accessible the functional areas. Tufa block insertions were used to recall the pathways made in the past and to make the design homogenous throughout the intervention. They thus become a symbolic and recognizing element of the extramoenia area.

Improving the itinerary outside the walls was the first point to be faced, since it constitutes the filter between the ancient city and the ager, a place where archaeological ruins of necropolis and rustic villas coexist with agricultural areas, orchards and forest areas. To make up for all those shortcomings that currently characterize the extramoenia area, some furniture and functional areas such as picnic areas, play areas, outdoor fitness, labyrinth, belvedere points, birdwatching and relaxation areas have been located at different strategic points of the ring.

The green ring will become a public park, an invitation to residents of the municipality to actively experience the place, intensifying their relationship with one of the world’s most famous archeological sites. Also, the important task of redistributing the considerable flows of visitors who daily come to the delicate archaeological areas will be reached, consequently easing the proper protection of the excavations, and offering a new great opportunity for tourists visiting the area with the discovery of the “Green Pompeii”.