The Schola Armaturarum, which fronts the Via dell’Abbondanza, is one of the best-known buildings in Regio III. Its modern name derives from the depictions of weapons and military trophies that decorated its rooms.
The building has traditionally been interpreted as the headquarters of a youth association connected with the city’s civic and military life, although its precise function remains the subject of study.
The Schola Armaturarum became widely known for tragic reasons on 6 November 2010, when part of the structure collapsed following heavy rainfall. The incident drew international attention to conservation conditions at Pompeii and helped prompt major programmes of stabilisation and restoration.
Subsequent work consolidated the walls and protected the surviving decorative elements. The interior is not normally open to visitors, but the building can be seen from the route along the Via dell’Abbondanza.
