The new approach should give a clearer focus to Pompeii. Tourists now often wander the dusty field of open ruins aimlessly, or with the help of independent guides who give conflicting explanations. Sandro Abate, who heads the holding company spearheading the project, says it will also bring in millions more visitors and, it’s hoped, give an economic boost to the poor regions of southern Italy. The project is scheduled to break ground in 2002. Says Abate: “Let’s hope Vesuvius doesn’t erupt before we get it built.”
