Art in Pompeii

Scattered around the preserved ruins of Pompeii, the occasional giant contemporary sculpture loom large above the crowds of tourists.

These works by the late Polish master, Igor Mitoraj, fit perfectly alongside the crumbling columns and broken walls of the city square.

Despite being installed as recently as 2016, these giant bronze figures of mythical creatures and heroes would probably seem more familiar to the ancient residents of Pompeii than the original elements of the city that remain today.

However, the patches of delicate paintings and murals inside the ruins of luxurious homes that have managed to survive, have maintained their bright colours and intricate features. The dramatic scenes of worship and home live give visitors a glimpse of what pieces of every day life the ancient locals held dear - including fertility.