Final answer:
Egyptian culture profoundly influenced the religious practices in Pompeii and Herculaneum, with Egyptian deities like Isis being worshipped, and Egyptian art and themes prevalent in public and private spaces.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of Egyptian culture within Pompeii and Herculaneum primarily manifested through the adoption of religious practices and deities, such as the worship of Isis and other gods. Many private villas in these cities showcased frescoes with Egyptian landscapes and religious symbolism, reflecting the fashionable nature of Egyptian aesthetics in Roman society. The cult of Isis, in particular, found significant popularity in southern Italy, evidenced by the proliferation of sanctuaries and temples dedicated to the goddess within the region. Roman art, architecture, and even religious rituals exhibited a clear reverence and fascination for Egyptian culture following the Roman conquest of Egypt.
In addition to private residences, the public sphere in Pompeii and Herculaneum embraced Egyptian motifs, as seen in the prominent temple of Isis in Pompeii, which boasted statues, wall paintings, and objects imported from Egypt. Artifacts such as statuettes and ritual implements indicate a personal level of religious engagement with Egyptian deities among the residents of these cities. Furthermore, during the reign of Emperor Domitian, even larger temples were established, adorned with sculptures from Egyptian stones and obelisks that celebrated the connection between Rome and Egypt.