August 23, 79 A.D.: Stabiae, Province of Italia.

This was one of the main ports near Pompeii. August 24th was the eruption, when the area ceased to exist. For one glorious day, I could enjoy ancient Rome in all its splendor without fear of disrupting the timeline. Running water, public baths, large stadiums were things that would not exist for over a thousand years after the Romans, which was arguably the most influential nation in Earth’s history. To just stroll its streets once would be a pleasure beyond price.

—Patrick Batey

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