• Formed from Two Volcanoes

Mount Vesuvius formed atop another volcano named Mount Somma Volcano creating its distinctive dual-peak structure. Over time, Vesuvius developed from the ancient crater of Monte Somma, shaping its iconic profile near Naples, Italy.

• Unnamed Until AD 79

Before the eruption in AD 79, Mount Vesuvius had no name. It was named after the Roman god of fire and metalwork, Vulcan, following the devastating eruption.

• A 17,000-Year-Old Volcano

Mount Vesuvius started forming about 17,000 years ago. It grew from the caldera of the older Monte Somma volcano.

• Eight Major Eruptions So Far

Mount Vesuvius has erupted eight major times in recorded history, including notable events in 79 AD, 1631, 1794, 1906, and most recently in 1944.

• Tax Exemption for Eruption Victims

After the devastating eruption in AD 512, the kingdom provided tax relief to residents affected by the disaster. This helped people rebuild their homes and farms after everything got covered in ash.

• Dormant for 1,800 Years

After the famous eruption in AD 79, Mount Vesuvius remained quiet for about 1,800 years.

• The AD 79 Eruption Lasted 24 Hours

The eruption in AD 79, which buried Pompeii and Herculaneum, lasted for 24 hours.

• A Stratovolcano

Mount Vesuvius is classified as a stratovolcano, known for its tall, steep-sided cone formed by layers of hardened lava, ash, and volcanic rocks. These volcanoes are shaped like steep cones because of all the built-up material from past eruptions. Over time, the layers harden and create a towering mountain like Vesuvius.

• Fertile Slopes

The slopes of Mount Vesuvius are richly fertile thanks to volcanic ash deposits acting as natural fertilizers rich in minerals. This fertile soil supports diverse agriculture, including fruits, vegetables, and vineyards, contributing to a lush landscape near Naples, Italy.

• Aircraft Destroyed in 1944

The last major eruption was in March 1944. It lasted two weeks and destroyed almost 80 planes at the Pompeii Airfield. Luckily, no people were killed.

• Plans for a New Eruption

Efforts are ongoing to reduce the number of people living in the high-risk "red zone." About 600,000 people live there now. Authorities have a plan to evacuate them if Vesuvius erupts again. Depending on the wind, an eruption could affect cities like Naples, Avellino, and Salerno.

• The “Plinian” Eruption Column

Volcanologists use the term "Plinian" for large eruption clouds. This term comes from Pliny the Younger, who described the AD 79 eruption as an "umbrella pine" shaped cloud rising above the volcano.