In the book, Caecilius dies in the 79 AD eruption of Vesuvius. However, as stated earlier, it is now believed that he actually perished in the 62 AD earthquake that preceded the eruption, since the records of his negotiated contracts cease shortly before then.

Does Caecilius die?

Caecilius is a banker who lives in Pompeii. When the volcano Mt. Vesuvius erupts near Pompeii, Caecilius returns to save his family. A wall falls on him in his house and he tragically dies.

Where is Caecilius?

The ancient equivalent to a banker, Caecilius loaned money and helped people with transactions, all the while keeping meticulous notes that help us understand Pompei. A bronze bust, thought to be Caecilius, is now in the National Museum at Naples.