New study in Pompeii: sites grow regardless of new excavations

Pompeii Archaeological Park is increasingly directing its excavation activities toward the territory outside the ancient city walls, research from the University of Salerno shows.

The research analyzed the relationship between new excavation campaigns and increased tourist flows, but found no significant correlations. Although visitor numbers exceeded 4 million in 2024, the decision to visit would depend on external factors, such as global trends and the economy, rather than new discoveries or restorations.

However, new excavations at less developed sites, such as Civita Giuliana, could lead to significant growth. The director of the excavations, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, stresses the importance of balancing conservation, enjoyment and knowledge of heritage, with a focus on areas outside Pompeii as part of “Greater Pompeii.”

Prof. Luigi Petti, co-author of the study, published in the latest issue of the journal Values and Valuations, explains that initially excavations require investment without immediate tourism benefits, but can bring long-term developments.

Learn more here by downloading the publication.

Find some of the articles on the subject at the following links:

Neo studio a Pompei, siti crescono indipendentemente da scavi

Pompei, lo studio rivela: record di visitatori anche senza le nuove scoperte

Pompei, aumentano i visitatori ma non è merito delle nuove scoperte archeologiche

Pompei, più visitatori ma non grazie alle nuove scoperte: il futuro è fuori dalle mura antiche