Hi,
I am a 67 year old female in good overall condition. I walk daily and climb stairs. However, I have neuropathy in my feet and hands. Do I need walking poles for Matera and/or Pompeii?
Thanks,
J.O.
Posted by
5319 posts
Maybe. I'll describe my impressions and hopefully that helps you know if it would be useful.
The issue at Pompeii is the huge cobblestones. I was much younger when I visited and I still remember it was murder on the feet. A pole could potentially help with stability.
In Matera, the sidewalk surfaces are very very slick. I was a bit older, but I recall just a little misting of rain making me feel I really needed to be careful. Be sure your shoes have excellent tread.
Two amazing sites but not where you want to have a spill, so I think being cautious will be prudent!
Posted by
Atlanta, GA area (USA)
126 posts
Pompei doesn’t really have any uphill or downhill but it does have a lot of stepping up and down a foot or so as you walk on the rocks. You can try to follow the accessible route where they’ve put in bridges over all the gaps but inevitably you’ll want to cross the street to get a better view. So a walking stick could definitely help with balance. Good luck!
Posted by
San Diego, California, USA
1211 posts
This is a good example of Pompeii streets: https://cdn.britannica.com/52/159952-050-00D2DCB3/roadway-Pompeii-Italy.jpg
The issue is groups stop and clog the 'sidewalk' areas when its busy so end up stepping up and down into the street more times than you expect looking at the photos. There are strategically placed shorter steps up (Roman design) but expect larger steps up and down when navigating your way around and act accordingly. So there are the large cobblestones, uneven footing and then the constant dodging of other people to get around them.
When you go don't miss the Insula dei Casti Amanti which is an elevated exhibit of archeological dig in action on Via dell’Abbondanza. Also watch the PBS documentary on the new digs before you for added context.
Have a great trip,
=Tod
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
8077 posts
I don't use a stick much, but make sure that you have a rubber tip option. Much of Pompeii is thoroughly paved with large stones, and you can't always stick a point into soft earth. Another issue in Pompeii is total distance. It's a very large place. Sun and heat are serious matters from May to September, at least. Although there are many Villas to enter, there is otherwise very little shade in Pompeii.