Pompeii: A Never Ending Discovery

In 79 CE, the eruption of Mount Vesuvius froze Pompeii in an instant, yet it also bequeathed to the world an unparalleled "time capsule." For over two millennia, the rediscovery, reinterpretation, and reexamination of Pompeii have made it an indispensable window into the ancient world.

Co-organized by the National Museum of China and the Treccani Institute, with support from the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, Pompeii Archaeological Park, the Embassy of Italy in China, and the Italian Ministry of Culture, and with special sponsorship from Bank of China, the exhibition Echoes of Eternity – The Exploration and Excavation of Pompeii opens to the public on February 4, 2026.

This exhibition traces the archaeological journey of Pompeii since its rediscovery in the 18th century, charting the evolution of methods, ideas, and discoveries across eras. Drawing on the latest research, it offers a fresh perspective on Pompeii’s role as a vital city in the Roman Empire, reconstructing daily life and revealing its central position within the broader Mediterranean network.

On display are 105 carefully selected artifacts from Italy, including marble sculptures, frescoes, pottery, bronzes, and goldwork. Among these, 81 are making their first appearance in China, and 7 have never been publicly exhibited even in Italy. The exhibition also features 3 immersive spaces, using multi-dimensional storytelling to bring archaeological findings vividly to life, offering visitors a direct and unforgettable encounter with the past.

Date: Feb 4 - Oct 11

Location: National Museum of China, Dongcheng District, Beijing