One of the most famous houses of Italy's Pompeii archeological site has been re-opened to the public after a 20-year closure due to structural concerns and a delicate restoration process.

The House of the Vettii is considered the city's Sistine Chapel because of its detailed architecture and artworks that date back thousands of years.

The house was owned by two former slaves who became rich by selling wine and other agricultural products.

"This 'domum' or house has many important characteristics of the city's elite homes, for example, the entrance, the atrium, the garden and artworks of Greek mythology," said Arianna Spinosa, the architect who directed the recent restoration.

The house was initially excavated in 1894. Spinosa says the recent restoration presented several technical challenges.

"We used traditional techniques and a controlled demolition because experts in the 1900s during the initial restoration used reinforced concrete which over time damaged the house and the paintings," she revealed.

"During the restoration there were continuous discoveries, so we worked closely as technicians, architects, and archeologists to preserve every new detail."

Pompeii is one of the world's most treasured archeological sites, welcoming up to 25,000 visitors each day, and the House of the Vettii is a main attraction for tourists.

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"What we register is their surprise and amazement," said Spinosa. "After a 20-year closure, there has been a big turnout. And obviously, to have been a part of the project was an immense joy."

Director Gabriel Zuchtriegel says the city frozen in time offers a crucial insight into the Roman culture.. "It talks about Pompeii, but it also gives a glimpse into daily life and urban planning and architecture and so many aspects of the Roman world in general," he told CGTN.

Machines replaced by sheep

In another new development, a flock of sheep has replaced machines to maintain Pompeii's green areas and ancient vineyards and olive groves are being revived to produce wine and oil.

The site's director says these ecological and agricultural initiatives are about engaging in archeological heritage. 

"You tend to isolate it, which I think is wrong, or you tend to see it as something larger that still in our present can be felt," said Zuchtriegel.

The history, mystery and magic of an old world set to be appreciated for generations to come.

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