Before the eruption of Vesuvius in the year 79, Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other towns around the Bay of Naples thrived as centers of trade in wine, olive oil, and seafood. They produced abundant harvests of fruits and vegetables, and served as entry points for shipments of grain from the then Roman province of Egypt. Many vacationing Romans were attracted to the area for its temperate climate, natural beauty, hot springs, and Greek heritage. Around the second century BC, Roman aristocrats began building houses and larger villas in the region. Over the next two centuries, ruling families also constructed estates there, and the influx of prominent residents brought incredible wealth to the area. Julius Caesar,.
