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House of the Geometric Mosaics, Pompeii

Address: Regio VIII, Insula 2
Area: 2211 square meters
Rooms: +30

The House of the Geometric Mosaics, also known as Casa dei Mosaici Geometrici (VIII.2.16), is one of the largest and most architecturally ambitious residences in Pompeii, spanning over 3,000 square meters and featuring more than 60 rooms across multiple levels. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, it exemplifies the evolution of Roman domestic architecture in a provincial city, incorporating panoramic terraces that exploit the natural hillside for stunning views. The house is renowned for its intricate black-and-white floor mosaics with geometric patterns, which give it its name, and reflects the wealth and cultural sophistication of Pompeii's elite. Formed from the merger of two pre-existing atrium houses, it underwent significant renovations after the AD 62 earthquake but was still under modification at the time of the AD 79 Vesuvius eruption. Excavated in phases during the 19th and 20th centuries, the site was restored and reopened to the public in 2016 as part of the Great Pompeii Project, offering insights into Roman engineering, art, and post-disaster urban renewal.

Location

The House of the Geometric Mosaics is situated in Regio VIII, Insula 2.16, on the west side of Via delle Scuole, a street running south from the Forum area. This position places it in the southwestern quadrant of Pompeii, near key landmarks such as the Forum to the north, the Large Theatre and Odeon to the southeast, and the Triangular Forum nearby. The house occupies a hillside site overlooking the Sarno Valley and the Gulf of Naples, utilizing the natural slope for its terraced design. Its main entrance is marked by a white marble sill, and it is connected to adjacent properties like VIII.2.14. Coordinates are approximately 40.7508° N, 14.4862° E, making it accessible within the Pompeii Archaeological Park via the Porta Marina or Piazza Esedra entrances. The location's elevation provided both defensive advantages in antiquity and aesthetic appeal, integrating the residence into Pompeii's urban landscape.

History

Originating in the Samnite period around the 2nd century BC, the House of the Geometric Mosaics was created by merging two earlier atrium-style dwellings, reflecting Pompeii's growth as a prosperous Roman colony. This unification allowed for expansion, including the addition of a large peristyle and terraces. The house reached its peak form during the early Imperial era, but suffered extensive damage from the AD 62 earthquake, prompting major restorations that included rebuilding the façade and interior spaces. Evidence suggests ongoing construction and modifications at the time of the AD 79 eruption, such as unfinished mosaics and structural adjustments. Ownership details are unclear, but the scale and decorations indicate it belonged to a wealthy family or merchant.
Excavations began in 1826, with significant campaigns from 1889–1899 (uncovering key mosaics), 1928–1929, and 1932. During these digs, artifacts like the Rape of the Leucippides mosaic were discovered in 1890. The site was damaged by Allied bombings in 1943 but was systematically restored under the Great Pompeii Project, reopening to visitors in November 2016 after conservation efforts focused on structural stability and mosaic preservation. Recent archaeological work, including surveys in 2017–2024 under the ERC Grant 681269 DÉCOR, has provided new insights into its decorative phases.

Architecture

The house's architecture is a masterful adaptation to the terrain, spanning two levels with a series of descending terraces that offer panoramic views over the Sarno Valley. Covering about 3,000 square meters, it features a classic Roman domus layout expanded for grandeur. The main entrance leads to a large atrium with an impluvium for rainwater collection, supported by four columns and surrounded by cubicula (bedrooms). From the atrium, a tablinum (reception room) provides axial access to a portico and a spacious peristyle (garden courtyard), which served as the social heart of the home. The peristyle, with its columns and open design, connects to additional rooms, including triclinia (dining rooms) and service areas.
The lower level includes terraced gardens and ancillary spaces, exploiting the hillside slope for natural lighting and ventilation. Structural elements like tuff walls, brick columns, and opus incertum masonry reflect post-earthquake reinforcements. Connected doorways to VIII.2.14 suggest possible shared use or ownership. Overall, the design emphasizes symmetry, functionality, and integration with the landscape, making it one of Pompeii's most expansive residences.

Decorations, Frescoes, and Artifacts

The house's defining feature is its elaborate black-and-white floor mosaics in geometric patterns, executed in the opus tessellatum technique. These include labyrinth motifs, checkerboards, meanders, squares, and central emblems like petalled rosettes, found in cubicula and other rooms. For instance, one cubiculum floor features a net of meanders with white tesserae on cocciopesto, while another has a rosette centerpiece. Walls incorporate opus sectile (cut marble inlays) with vegetal motifs, adding polychrome elegance; some panels are now displayed in the Pompeii Antiquarium.
Frescoes are less prominent but include faded Fourth Style elements in some areas, with possible mythological themes. The triclinium housed a notable marine life mosaic (88 cm x 88 cm), depicting an octopus battling a lobster surrounded by 21 species of fish, eels, birds, and other creatures, showcasing naturalistic detail.
Key artifacts include the mosaic of the Rape of the Leucippides (Hilaeira and Phoebe abducted by Castor and Pollux), discovered in 1890 in a rear room and now in the Naples Archaeological Museum (inv. 120619). Other finds comprise pottery fragments, lamps, and tools from excavations, reflecting daily life. No significant human remains or hoards were reported, emphasizing the site's focus on decorative arts.

Current Status and Visiting Information

As of August 25, 2025, the House of the Geometric Mosaics is open to the public within the Pompeii Archaeological Park, following its 2016 restoration under the Great Pompeii Project, which addressed structural issues and protected mosaics from erosion and tourism. Visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM during summer), though sections may close for ongoing maintenance. Access requires a standard park ticket (€16–€18), with guided tours or audio guides recommended for exploring the terraces and mosaics. The site is partially wheelchair-accessible, but the hillside terrain and steps can be challenging—visitors should check with park staff. Informational panels highlight key features, and virtual tours via the park's app provide remote access. Conservation efforts continue to preserve the delicate mosaics, making it a highlight for those interested in Roman art and architecture. Nearby sites like the Forum and theaters complement visits.