When was the House of the Tragic Poet discovered in Pompeii?
Antonio Bonucci uncovered the Roman house in November 1824. The structure had been buried under volcanic ash since the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Questions about House of the Tragic Poet
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Where is the House of the Tragic Poet located within ancient Pompeii?
The building sits in Regio VI, Insula 8 across from the Forum Baths and facing the Via di Nola. This far-western section links the forum to the Street of the Tombs.
What specific artwork appears on the floor of the vestibule at the House of the Tragic Poet?
A domesticated dog leashed and chained appears below the words CAVE CANEM meaning Beware of the dog. Black and white tesserae tiles form checker-like patterns framed by two black stripes surrounding the entire room.
Why do art historians call this residence the House of the Tragic Poet?
Excavators believed a wall panel depicting Admetus seated beside Alcestis suggested a poet reciting poetry which inspired the modern name. Some sources argue the picture originated from Herculaneum instead of Pompeii itself.
Which mythological figures appear on the south wall frescoes inside the House of the Tragic Poet?
The south wall displays Zeus holding Hera by the wrist while Hypnos presented her to him on Mount Ida. Three young dactyli figures stand at the bottom right beneath a pillar with three lions perched upon it.