Latest Discoveries in Pompeii: Unveiling the Past

Even though the Ancient Roman city of Pompeii was destroyed almost two millennia ago, it continues to fascinate us to this day – especially when the archaeological excavations bring back to light haunting and incredible discoveries.

Archaeological Findings in Civita Giuliana

On 21 November, the Archaeological Park of Pompeii announced that excavations ongoing in the suburban area of Civita Giuliana (about 700 meters north-west of Pompeii’s main site) had discovered the remains of two victims of the 79 CE eruption.

Victims of the Eruption

According to the archaeologists working on the excavations, the two victims were probably trying to escape the Pompeii area during the short period between the first explosion, which released a relatively smaller quantity of pumice and ash onto the city, and the second explosion, which was quicker, more violent, and engulfed all living beings in its path. One of the two fugitives has been identified as a younger man, aged between 18 and 25. His skeleton indicates that he had performed heavy labor throughout his life, suggesting he may have been a slave of the noble owners of the villa where the two victims were found. The other was an older man, aged between thirty and forty, dressed in finer clothing, indicating that he might have belonged to a higher social class.

The Plaster Casting Technique

Their bodies were uncovered using the well-tested technique of plaster casting, the same method that was applied during the initial excavations of Pompeii in the 19th century. The decomposition of organic materials, whether they are bodies, wood, or food, creates an empty space within the hardened ash layer. Archaeologists identify these voids and pour liquid plaster into them to preserve the shape of what once existed. Once the plaster solidifies, the cast is excavated, revealing what was buried beneath the ash.

Both victims were dressed in heavy wool clothing, and a mass near the younger man’s hand suggests he may have carried a cloak for warmth. This evidence further supports the theory that the eruption occurred around mid-October rather than August, which was traditionally believed.

For those interested in learning more about Pompeii and its recent archaeological discoveries, the Park’s official website provides extensive information.