The Casa della Fontana Piccola, or House of the Small Fountain, in Pompeii is set to reopen to the public on November 21 after a comprehensive restoration.
This reopening coincides with the fourth edition of Telling the Construction Sites, an initiative offering MyPompeii Card holders exclusive access to ongoing restoration and enhancement projects within the Archaeological Park. These guided visits will occur every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. through April 17, 2025.
Nestled along Via di Mercurio, the House of the Small Fountain offers a window into the lavish lifestyle of its original inhabitants. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a magnificent garden fountain embellished with vibrant mosaics, seashells, and replicas of bronze statues depicting a fisherman and a Cupid. The peristyle’s frescoed walls, adorned with sweeping landscapes and scenes of maritime cities, showcase the artistry and cultural richness of ancient Pompeii.
The restoration focused on preserving the historic essence of the domus while ensuring its structural stability. Key efforts included reinforcing the concrete beams in the main atrium with advanced FRP materials, replacing the atrium roof, and revising the peristyle’s roofing to shield it from the elements. Waterproofing measures were also implemented to prevent water infiltration, and the decorative elements of the peristyle were carefully conserved.
In addition to the House of the Small Fountain, Telling the Construction Sites will spotlight 20 other significant restoration projects, including the Baths of the Forum, the Necropolis of Porta Stabia, the House of the Atrium, and the Insula Occidentalis. Visitors will gain behind-the-scenes insights through expert-led tours, shedding light on the intricate processes of excavation, conservation, and restoration that bring Pompeii’s history to life.