Lead pipes from the fountains made their way beneath the sidewalks to huge cisterns. The nifty drainage system also involved building the sidewalks high up so that pedestrians would not get their tootsies soiled by the garbage and rain water collecting in the streets. Resourceful as always, the architects of Pompeii also laid out huge stepping stones at crossings, again to ensure dry feet. If you like to do things quickly and cheaply, tag on to tour groups who speak your language. Then move on and do your own thing before finding another group. Anticipate around three hours of walking. This is not a place for anyone who is infirm. It’s dusty, and the cobblestones make for difficult walking conditions.