The History of Plumbing - Pompeii & Herculaneum

Plumbing in ancient Rome was quite advanced for its time, particularly evident in the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. These cities, both tragically destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, provide valuable insights into the plumbing systems of antiquity. In Pompeii, a sophisticated network of lead pipes was used to supply water to public fountains, baths, and private homes. The lead pipes were marked with the names of the owners to prevent theft, showcasing a level of organization and civic planning. The public baths of Pompeii, such as the Stabian Baths, had intricate heating and plumbing systems that included hot and cold water supplies and drainage. Similarly, in Herculaneum, a well-preserved ancient Roman town buried under volcanic ash, archaeologists discovered a complex water and sewer system. Houses in Herculaneum had private toilets connected to a sewer system that emptied into the main sewage network. The town also had public fountains supplied by an aqueduct and a system for collecting and distributing rainwater. The plumbing systems of Pompeii and Herculaneum reflect the Romans' engineering prowess and their understanding of the importance of sanitation and hygiene. These ancient cities serve as a testament to the sophistication of plumbing technology in antiquity and the legacy of Roman engineering that continues to influence modern plumbing practices.