Vesuvius is a famous volcano located near the city of Naples in Italy. It is known for its explosive eruptions, the most notable being in AD 79, which buried the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under ash and pumice. Vesuvius is part of the Campanian volcanic arc and is one of the few active volcanoes in mainland Europe. The volcano stands about 1,281 meters (4,203 feet) tall and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can hike to the summit for stunning views of the surrounding area, including the Bay of Naples. Vesuvius is closely monitored by scientists due to its potential for future eruptions.