While the two cities remained in peoples memories, as time passed the exact locations were lost. They were rediscovered in the 1700's. Excavation was started, but mostly amounted to looting by various owners at that time. It wasn't until the mid 1800's that careful recording of discoveries began (4). The lapilli and ash had done an amazing job of preserving the city. We have been able to gather much information from Pompeii not available elsewhere, much of it detailing the residents personal lives. Though walls and ceilings had collapsed, peoples belongings were left as they were when disaster struck. Many took their gold and jewels but left everything else behind. These little tidbits show us how much like them we still are today. It is sometimes suprising how little things change over the course of centuries!