Wednesday, October 25, 2006

Pompeii brothel reopened -- for tourists

POMPEII, Italy, Oct. 25 (UPI) -- The ancient brothel of Pompeii has been reopened after a complete restoration carried out in the name of archaeology.

The attraction's famous frescos -- depicting the wide variety of services offered by the friendly staff pre-volcano -- have been freshened up for viewing in the ruins of the ancient Roman city that was buried virtually intact when Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 49.

The Italian news agency ANSA said the brothel, known as the Lupanare, was reopened to visitors Thursday after being closed for a year. It is expected to return quickly to its position among the top attractions in Pompeii.

Speaking of positions, ANSA said the art works include depictions of the sex acts available from the prostitutes, who were known as "Lupa" back in the day. Lupa is the Latin word for "wolf."