LOS ANGELES, April 23, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On August 24, 79 A.D., the Roman city of Pompeii was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, burying everything in its path for more than 1600 years.  The Vesuvius eruption that spewed searing hot ash not only obliterated the city, but ironically preserved its people and treasures, freezing them in a volcanic time capsule now revealed in the west coast premiere of this exhibition.  Over 150 precious artifacts on loan from the unparalleled collection of the Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy, including wall-sized frescos, marble and bronze sculptures, jewelry, ancient Roman coins, and full body casts of the volcano's victims, will be on display at the California Science Center, May 20, 2014 – January 4, 2015.

These artifacts, set in scenic depictions of their original surroundings, tell the tale of the bustling city of Pompeii, hidden from view and forgotten for centuries until its rediscovery over 250 years ago. The catastrophic power of volcanoes is also illustrated through an immersive CGI experience of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The impact and devastation is evidenced by full body casts (plaster casts made from the hollows left in the ash that hardened around the now disintegrated bodies of the victims, found upon excavation), eerily preserved in their final moments. 

"This exhibition gives an extraordinary look at the city of Pompeii's archeological treasures that rarely leave Italy," said California Science Center President Jeffrey Rudolph. "The insights and discoveries presented and made possible by the scientific tools of archeology and geology will allow guests to reach across time and gain a deeper understanding and human connection with this ancient culture and its people."

Exhibition Highlights -

• The exhibition's media-rich, immersive experience transports visitors back in time to 79 A.D. where they will embark on a journey through the ancient city, culminating with the fateful morning of the eruption.  They will learn how Pompeii was a bustling commercial port and strategic military and trading center, while its neighbor Herculaneum, also buried by Vesuvius, was an exclusive Mediterranean resort. Artifacts bring this world to life as visitors discover how its people lived, loved, worked and worshiped.
• Included among the more than 150 authentic artifacts are: mosaics and frescoes, gladiator armor, weapons, a ship's anchor, ceramics, plates, furniture, jewelry, medical instruments and tools.
• A Pompeii brothel replica features uncensored frescos, and artifacts of explicit sexual content, which may not be suitable for some guests.  Parental guidance is advised for this part of the exhibition, which will be sufficiently sequestered.
• A simulated eruption allows visitors to experience the devastating impact Mount Vesuvius had on Pompeii, culminating in the reveal of full body casts of twisted human forms, asphyxiated by extreme heat and noxious gases.

Additionally, archaeological details present a unique record of Pompeii's daily life including roads, buildings, and municipal services.

Forces of Nature IMAX Film

To enhance the guest experience during the run of Pompeii: The Exhibition, the Science Center IMAX Theater will be featuring Forces of Nature. The film showcases the incredible spectacles of volcanoes, earthquakes, and severe storms, and follows scientists to the very brink of erupting volcanoes, into the paths of deadly pyroclastic flows, along massive fault lines, and aboard vehicles barreling toward tornadic storms. Audiences will learn what is being done to prepare for and minimize these events.

TICKET INFORMATION   
Pompeii: The Exhibition requires a timed-entry ticket. Advance reservations are highly recommended. For information on discounts for California Science Center Members and groups and to purchase tickets, please visit www.californiasciencecenter.org or call (213) 744-2019.

About the California Science Center and Ticket Information

The California Science Center is a dynamic destination where families, adults and children can explore the wonders of science through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, innovative programs and awe-inspiring films. Its mission is as follows:" We aspire to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone by creating fun, memorable experiences, because we value science as an indispensable tool for understanding our world, accessibility and inclusiveness, and enriching people's lives."

The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 Exposition Park Drive. The Science Center is open daily from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 pm. Please check the Science Center web site for schedule updates. Tickets for Pompeii: The Exhibition are currently on sale. Guests are encouraged to buy tickets online at www.californiasciencecenter.org to reserve an entry date & time. The general information number is (323) SCIENCE. Pompeii: The Exhibition admission prices are $19.75­­­ for adults 18-59, $16.75 for youth 13 to 17, college students with I.D. & seniors 60+, and $12.75 for children 4 - 12. Member discount rates are $12.75 for adults, $11.75 for youth 13 to 17, college students with I.D. & seniors 60+, and $10.75 for children 4-12. Pompeii: The Exhibition and IMAX combination ticket prices are $26.00 for adults 18-59, $21.25 for youth 13-17, college students with I.D. and seniors 60+, and $16.50 for children 4-12. Member discount rates for combo tickets are $18.25 for adults, $15.25 for youth 13 to 17, college students with I.D. & seniors 60+, and $13.75 for children 4-12. Special rates for schools and other groups of 15 and over apply. The exhibit's special group information number is (213) 744-2019. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Admission to all other Science Center exhibits is free. More information is also available at www.californiasciencecenter.org

Go Metro to the California Science Center. Ride the Expo Line to the Expo Park/USC Station. For the best route, use the Metro Trip Planner at www.metro.net

Note to media: Exhibit images available at -
California Science Center Pompeii Photos

About Premier Exhibitions, Inc.
Premier Exhibitions, Inc. (Nasdaq:PRXI), located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a foremost presenter of museum quality exhibitions throughout the world. Premier is a recognized leader in developing and displaying unique exhibitions for education and entertainment including Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, BODIES...The Exhibition, Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs, and Real Pirates in partnership with National Geographic.  The success of Premier Exhibitions, Inc. lies in its ability to produce, manage, and market exhibitions.  Additional information about Premier Exhibitions, Inc. is available at the Company's web site www.PremierExhibitions.com

For more information, contact:
Shell Amega samega@cscmail.org | 213-744-7496

SOURCE California Science Center Foundation