The archaeological Superintendency of Pompeii introduced a new service for the visually impaired last October 29th, with a synaesthetic tactile model on the “Infant Hercules” fresco at the House of Vettii, created as part of the HELP European research project.

 

The blind and visually impaired can use this innovative and experimental perception instrument through a sophisticated computerised system, supported by sounds and audio guides. The model, installed in the auditorium at the Pompeii site, is the first of this kind applied to archaeology.

Work is scheduled to start soon for the construction of series of platforms to make the southern area of the Pompeii site accessible to the disabled.
The project will upgrade a number of pedestrian pathways from the San Paolino entrance, along via della Palestra and via Castricio, to join via dell'Abbondanza.

In addition to the work to upgrade the itineraries, a number of removable ramps will also be built, to allow persons to cross via Nocera and some of the roads perpendicular to via dell’Abbondanza.

 

The synaesthetic tactile model may be used free of charge by the visually impaired on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month by booking at the following number: 081.8575347

Credits

The audio guides with dedicated text have been provided free of charge by Audiovideofono di D’Uva

Arethusa has provided personnel trained to use the system