AceShowbiz - On the evening of August 16, Madonna celebrated her 66th birthday in Pompei, Italy, surrounded by friends, family, and local youth. The Queen of Pop arrived at the archaeological site with a group of about 30 people, including her rumored boyfriend, soccer player Akeem Morris, and her 11-year-old twin daughters, Estere and Stella.

The singer and her entourage were given a guided tour of the park, led by its director, Gabriel Zuchtriegel. The tour included performances by a chorus of teenagers and young children involved in the Dream of Flying project, an initiative funded by Madonna that aims to engage the local community in the cultural life of Pompeii.

Madonna's connection with the youth and the ancient site was a significant part of her birthday celebration. The Dream of Flying project, which she fully funded through her Ray of Light Foundation until 2025, aims to involve the local community in the cultural life of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Zuchtriegel expressed his gratitude for Madonna's generosity and vision, stating that it would inspire the community and "demonstrate that art and culture truly can change our lives."

Madonna also shared her birthday festivities on Instagram, posting glamorous photos of herself with her twins and Morris. "Back in Italy," she wrote. "Happy birthday to Me."

In addition to her visit to Pompeii, Madonna also spent time in other parts of Italy, including Portofino, where she reportedly enjoyed a birthday dinner with around 500 guests. Despite rumors, the party was not held in Pompeii but at the ancient Roman amphitheater in the city.

Madonna's birthday celebrations were also marked by the re-entry of her hit song "Like a Prayer" into the UK singles charts, over 35 years after its initial release. The song is part of the soundtrack for the Marvel blockbuster "Deadpool & Wolverine."