Pompeii dig uncovers intimate glimpse of ancient tragedy
A group of archaeologists made a major discovery in Pompeii. They unearthed the remains of two victims of a volcanic eruption that happened nearly two thousand years ago.
5:17 PM EDT, August 14, 2024
The archaeologists have been working in towns in the present-day Campania region of Italy. The remains were discovered in the Ninth Region of Pompeii. During previous excavations in this area, they also discovered a bakery and residential buildings with rooms decorated with small drawings.
Discovery in Pompeii
The remains of two people were found in a small, enclosed room, which archaeologists believe was a bedroom. Experts think it was chosen as a shelter during the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 A.D.
According to experts, volcanic material most likely did not enter the bedroom. However, archaeologists believe the couple was trapped inside and perished when the room was buried.
The woman's body was found on a bed. "She had a small treasure with her, including gold, silver, and bronze coins as well as jewelry, including a pair of gold and pearl earrings," said a statement from the Archaeological Park in Pompeii.
A treat for archaeologists
Researchers emphasize that such discoveries are very significant for them, as they provide crucial information about the inhabitants of ancient cities. These findings enable archaeologists to recreate the final moments of the people's lives before the disaster and reconstruct the places where they lived.
It's worth noting that in 79 A.D., when the city was buried by ash and lava from the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, about 20,000 residents lived in Pompeii.
Source: CNN/abcnews.go.com