Menander

Menander

This is a fresco portraying the famous Greek poet/dramatist, Menander (342–290 BC).  He was one of the most popular poets in antiquity, but most of his works have perished.

It is this fresco that has given the house of Poppaeus Sabinus its modern name.


The House of Menander is located to the southeast of the Roman Forum of Pompeii.  It is one of the largest and most opulent houses of Pompeii (19,000 sq ft.).  A personal seal and graffiti indicate that Quintus Poppaeus Sabinus was its owner.  He was a relative of the Empress Poppea Sabina, Nero's second wife.  Its name comes from a fresco of a famous Greek dramatist, Menander found on one of the walls.

Regio I, Insula X.4 (= Region 1, Block 10, Doorway 4 [plus others])