This exhibit is no longer at the Museum.
Pompeii: The Exhibition Extended
ON THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE ERUPTION OF MT. VESUVIUS, MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY REVEALS NEW ARTIFACTS PRESERVED FROM THE ANCIENT CITY OF POMPEII
By Popular Demand, MSI Announces the Extension of Pompeii: The Exhibition to Allow Visitors More Time to Experience Historical Treasures
CHICAGO - Visitors to the Museum of Science and Industry now have more time to journey back in time and experience the captivating story of ancient Pompeii and the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The Museum announced today that it will extend the stay of Pompeii: The Exhibition and unveiled three artifacts from Pompeii that are new to the exhibit. The announcement comes on "Vesuvius Day," a day that commemorates the anniversary of Mount Vesuvius' catastrophic eruption.
Since its arrival to Chicago in February, Pompeii: The Exhibition has captivated audiences with its extraordinary collection of over 150 authentic artifacts, including well-preserved frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures that have survived the test of time. The exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the daily life, culture, and tragedy of the ancient Roman city, frozen in time by the catastrophic volcanic eruption in 79 A.D.
New to the exhibition are three artifacts, all discovered amid the ruins of the city thousands of years later. The new additions include:
- Mosaic of a Garum Amphora - This artifact is a black and white mosaic that once decorated the corners of the house of Aulus Umbricius Scaurus, Pompeii's leading producer of garum. Scaurus was a wealthy Pompeiian thanks to his development and trading of the famous fish sauce.
- Jug in the Shape of a Rooster - Originally located in the House of Venus in a Bikini, this terracotta jug stands a foot tall and takes the form of a skillfully crafted rooster. Designed for serving wine and various beverages, this unique vessel functioned by pouring liquid into the cylindrical hole in the rooster's back and then dispensing it through the spout in its pierced back.
- Jug in the Shape of a Dog - This novelty terracotta pitcher artfully depicts the head and fur of a seated dog or possibly a fox. Dating back to the 1st century A.D., this artifact allowed for wine and other beverages to be poured into cups through the animal's mouth.
"Nestled within this exhibition are lessons for people of all ages about ancient Roman and human history, the deeply powerful natural world that surrounds us, and what scientific advancements can tell us about events that occurred thousands of years ago," said Dr. Voula Saridakis, curator at the Museum of Science and Industry and historian of science and technology. "We are delighted to extend the run of Pompeii: The Exhibition to provide more visitors the chance to explore this extraordinary ancient city and its people."
Pompeii: The Exhibition is a unique educational experience that showcases the resilience and ingenuity of ancient civilizations. It allows visitors to step into the ancient world and gain a deeper understanding of the people, culture, and art that thrived in Pompeii before the fateful eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., which ultimately destroyed the city while freezing it in time with volcanic ash and debris. It remains one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of our time.
The extension of the exhibition provides an exceptional opportunity for those who have not yet experienced the wonder of Pompeii or for those who wish to return for another mesmerizing encounter with history. It is now slated to close January 15, 2024. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets early in anticipation of high demand.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit MSI's website.
About the Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
The Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (Griffin MSI) offers world-class and uniquely interactive experiences that support the Museum's mission: to inspire the inventive genius in everyone. As one of the largest science museums in the world featuring award-winning exhibits and hands-on activities, a visit to the Griffin MSI is guaranteed to connect fun and learning. Griffin MSI is committed to offering comprehensive educational programs-for students, administrators, teachers and families-that make a difference in local communities and contribute to MSI's goal to transform and illuminate STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) pathways for people of all ages. The Museum is grateful for the support of its generous donors and guests who make its work possible. The Griffin MSI is also supported in part by the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, visit msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414.
About World Heritage Exhibitions
World Heritage Exhibitions (WHE) is renowned for producing, promoting, and designing the finest quality museum content on the globe. Their exhibitions have captivated, educated, and inspired visitors in virtually every major market on the planet. With a combined 150 years of exhibition experience, the WHE executive team has been responsible for touring many of the world's most valuable treasures, including objects from King Tutankhamun's tomb, relics from Cleopatra's Royal Palace, artifacts from the Titanic, items from the discovery of Pompeii, and more. Their exhibitions have now been enjoyed by over 30 million people spanning six continents, and their collective expertise has come together in one of the industry's most influential touring exhibition companies.
In 2021, World Heritage Exhibitions became a part of NEON, a global leader in immersive experiences that is responsible for the touring phenomena "Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N.," "AVATAR: The Experience," "Jurassic World: The Exhibition," and more. WHE and NEON have brought their expertise together to launch the awe-inspiring, artifact-based exhibitions "Ramses the Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs" and "Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru." Coupled with some of the most successful artifact exhibitions on tour: "Mummies of the World: The Exhibition;" "Pompeii: The Exhibition;" "Victoria the T. rex;" and "Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away," their collective exhibition and I.P. portfolio now highlight some of the most significant items and events in history with many of the most sought-after I.P. properties.
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