The eruption of Vesuivius and the consequential burial of nearby towns Pompeii and Herculaneum may have been one of histories greatest tragedy's, but today this misfortune provides archaeologists with unique and significant insight into the society of Ancient Rome.

Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, burying both Pompeii and Herculaneum, thus protecting them for centuries from nature, human destruction and ever the ever progressing world.

Pompeii was first discovered in late in the 16th century, although not recognized until much later. Herculaneum was stumbled upon in the 18th century. Unfortunately, those first working on the sites were incompetent and often irresponsible; excavators were primarily treasure seekers, hunting for impressive buildings or museum objects.

Herculaneum was finally taken over by archaeologist Amadeo Maiuri in 1927. The situation in Pompeii didn't improve until 1860 when Italian archaeologist Giuseppe Fiorelli became director of the excavations. He kept written records of his investigations, and...