Journey Back to Ancient Pompeii at Arizona Science Center
Prepare for an extraordinary trip through time as “Pompeii: The Exhibition” makes its highly anticipated return to the Arizona Science Center, offering Phoenix locals a unique glimpse into a city frozen in history. Starting this Saturday, visitors can immerse themselves in the dramatic moments leading up to Mount Vesuvius’s catastrophic eruption in 79 A.D., revealing a vivid snapshot of Roman life.
Relive History: The Story of Pompeii
The famed traveling exhibition is back in Phoenix, previously having captivated audiences in 2018. This immersive experience transports you directly to the ancient city of Pompeii, just hours before the devastating volcanic eruption encased it in ash and debris. This natural preservation allowed archaeologists to uncover the city and its inhabitants more than 1,700 years later, providing an unparalleled window into the past.
Tammy Stewart, Interim Hazel A. Hare President and CEO of the Arizona Science Center, emphasizes the exhibition’s significance: “The story of Pompeii’s destruction and preservation is well-known around the world for providing a perfect encapsulation of life during the Roman era… It is a remarkable story that exists as both an ancient legend and an archaeological treasure.”
What to Expect: Artifacts and Immersive Experiences
“Pompeii: The Exhibition” masterfully blends priceless artifacts with cutting-edge multimedia productions to create an unforgettable journey. Your visit begins with a captivating video reconstruction of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius, setting the scene for the impending disaster. A holographic display of gladiatorial combat further enhances the ancient atmosphere.
The exhibit’s gallery features more than 150 authentic artifacts, on loan from The Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy and the Archaeological Park of Pompeii. Marvel at gladiator armor, weapons, vibrant frescos, statues, exquisite jewelry, medical instruments, and daily cooking ware. A 4D theater simulation then plunges you into the various stages of the eruption, showcasing its profound impact on the city. The powerful culmination of the exhibit is the reveal of full-body casts of residents, forever preserved in their final moments.
John Norman, Producer of Pompeii: The Exhibition, highlights the educational value: “The blend of scientific discovery and a media-rich way of retelling history allows visitors to experience the awe of nature and human ingenuity… and immerse themselves in Pompeii with breathtaking, real-life examples of archeology, geology, earth science, art history, culture and more.”
Plan Your Visit: Dates, Tickets, and Location
This extraordinary exhibition will be on display for a limited time, from this Saturday until April 12, 2026, at the Arizona Science Center in downtown Phoenix. To experience “Pompeii: The Exhibition,” a separate timed-entry ticket is required in addition to general admission to the science center.
Ticket Options for Pompeii: The Exhibition
| Ticket Type | Includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Timed-Entry Ticket | Access to Pompeii: The Exhibition (timed entry) | $17 |
| Premium Ticket | All-day access to Pompeii: The Exhibition + Audio Tour | $20 |
| Audio Tour Add-on | Audio tour (requires separate timed or premium ticket) | $5 |
Tickets can be conveniently purchased online through the Arizona Science Center’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does “Pompeii: The Exhibition” run?
The exhibition runs from this Saturday until April 12, 2026. - Do I need a special ticket to see the Pompeii exhibit?
Yes, a separate timed-entry ticket for the exhibition is required in addition to general admission to the Arizona Science Center. - What kind of artifacts will I see?
You will see over 150 artifacts, including gladiator armor, weapons, frescos, statues, jewelry, medical instruments, and cooking ware, as well as full-body casts of Pompeii residents. - Where do the artifacts come from?
The artifacts are on loan from The Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy and the Archaeological Park of Pompeii.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness the grandeur and tragedy of ancient Pompeii right here in Phoenix, gaining a profound appreciation for its history and the scientific efforts to uncover its story.
Pompeii Exhibit Returns to Arizona Science Center
