Hobart, Tasmania – A rare and intimate glimpse into Pompeii’s regenerated interiors is coming to Australia with a highly anticipated exhibition presented by the European Union. Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life - Photographs by Luigi Spina features a curated collection of large-format images capturing the silent beauty of Pompeii’s homes, frozen in time.

Beyond featuring one Europe’s most famous archaeological sites, the exhibition explores the lifestyles of those that lived there, as well as focusing on the importance of preserving and upholding cultural heritage. As a World Heritage site, Pompeii is preserved for the sake of the world, like the 20 World Heritage Sites in Australia.

Taken during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Pompeii was closed to visitors, acclaimed photographer Spina’s images offer an unprecedented view of the ancient city bathed in natural light, unaltered by crowds or modern intervention. Through the lens of his purpose-built camera, Spina brings Pompeii back to life. This work was originally published in the publication Interno Pompeiano (Inside Pompeii) in 5 language editions in collaboration with 5 Continents Editions (Milan, Italy), which inspired the bespoke touring exhibition for Australia.

The European Union presents this exclusive exhibition for Australian audiences to experience Pompeii like never before, offering a powerful connection to a past way of life and an urgent reminder of the importance of conservation, and preserving the past for the benefit of the future.

EU Ambassador to Australia, Gabriele Visentin said: “The exhibition Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life offers a powerful reminder that preserving the past for the benefit of the future is both a source of pride and a responsibility. Diplomacy has many languages, and I am delighted to bring the exhibition to Tasmania, to enjoy its beauty, reflect on culture and preservation, and create a dialogue about our shared future.”

The European Union is committed to protecting and preserving cultural heritage across the world, including an EU investment of €78 million (AUD$130 million) in the Great Pompeii Project, restoring 70 buildings, recovering 40 hectares of ruins, and establishing best practices in heritage management.
 

 Event details:

“Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life - Photographs by Luigi Spina”

Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
4 April – 29 June 2025 
Free entry