Heavy rain turns Pompeii into rivers, ancient Roman stepping stones save visitors

On June 26, 2026, a severe thunderstorm hit Naples and the surrounding province, turning the walkways of the Pompeii Archaeological Park into torrents of water. Despite a yellow weather alert for Campania, many visitors were caught off guard and had to cross the ancient streets using Roman-era raised stepping stones, which functioned like modern pedestrian crossings. Park director Gabriel Zuchtriegel posted a video on Instagram, stating that no damage to people or property was reported. The event highlights the growing frequency of extreme weather linked to climate change, which is already forcing European cultural sites to adjust opening hours and visitor flows. While Pompeii escaped harm, such intense storms pose a long-term threat to fragile archaeological heritage. The article was written by Valentina Muzi for Artribune.