Shell-shocked tourists rub their eyes at bizarre invasion across Pompeii’s ancient streets

Holidaymakers stepping into Italy’s most famous archaeological site this summer will rub their eyes in disbelief. Behind the ancient stone columns, travellers are stumbling across a completely unexpected, multi-coloured takeover hidden inside 2,000-year-old courtyards.

Attack of the colossal crustaceans

Scottish pop artist Philip Colbert has officially brought his famous cartoon alter ego into the heart of this world-famous Roman landmark. Thirty massive, bright red lobster sculptures—many towering well above human height—have taken over historic walkways, ancient temples and residential quarters. Holidaymakers exploring the stone ruins can spot giant shellfish disguised as stone pillars or sporting bright pink turtlenecks, together with futuristic robotic lobster warriors crafted from sleek black steel.

Ancient shellfish wars in Roman mosaics

Unlikely as this crustacean invasion seems, inspiration actually stems straight from Pompeii’s own quirky historical records. Excavations conducted centuries ago inside the famous House of the Faun uncovered a magnificent Roman floor mosaic depicting an intense underwater duel between an octopus, a moray eel and a sea crustacean. Colbert felt instantly drawn to this ancient masterpiece, treating his modern pop-art figures as a fun, creative catch-up with artists who lived long before Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD.

Catching a lobster in a pink turtleneck

Park authorities granted rare access for these colourful shellfish figures to sit inside delicate domestic spaces, including the historic Casa di Cerere. Sightseers strolling through ancient living rooms can snap selfies with a giant red lobster wearing a stylish sweater whilst clutching a tiny replica of a Roman temple. Historical custodians hope this playful contrast brings a lighthearted spark to historical storytelling, proving that art and humour can survive across centuries of history.

Pinching memories across southern Italy

Exhibition managers extended this quirky trail into nearby historic sites, including the Villa of Poppaea and Boscoreale. Fun-loving travellers planning an autumn getaway to Campania will find these playful sculptures scattered across multiple ancient locations until November.