10Pompeii, Italy
The ancient city of Pompeii, famously destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, is home to some of the most well-preserved Roman mosaics in the world. The volcanic ash that buried Pompeii helped to protect its art for nearly two millennia. One of the most iconic mosaics is the “Alexander Mosaic” found in the House of the Faun, depicting Alexander the Great in battle. The mosaic’s vibrant colors and detailed depiction of movement make it a true masterpiece. Pompeii’s residential homes, baths, and public buildings are filled with a variety of mosaics, from intricate geometric patterns to mythological scenes.
