History of the World?

As best as historians and scientists can tell, August 24 in the year 79 A.D. is the day that Mount Vesuvius—located in modern-day Italy—erupted, burying the Ancient Roman city of Pompeii and ceasing life in a bustling, thriving metropolis. Ironically, the same destructive volcanic force is also credited with preserving many elements within the city that were uncovered centuries later, including more than 250 artifacts that will be on display at Discovery Place in A Day in Pompeii.

It's easy to assume that our lives are more advanced than those of past civilizations, but Discovery Place President and CEO John Mackay says the exhibit might just prove that thought all wrong.

"They compare well to the way we live today," he says. "They had running water of sorts, hot and cold baths, restaurants, preprepared food, and were very engaged in sports and entertainment, theater. Big public arenas were built for amusement. They enjoyed good food and good wine."

Sound familiar?

Through Jan 4, 2009, Discovery Place.