New Pompeii Discovery: Couple Found in Bed Amid Treasures from 79 A.D. Eruption
August 13, 2024Archaeologists in Pompeii, Italy, have uncovered the remains of two victims from the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.
The remains include a man and a woman, believed to have sought refuge in a small bedroom during the eruption.
The couple was found in a small bedroom that served as a temporary sleeping space during renovations.
They died due to a pyroclastic flow while trapped in the room, which remained clear of pumice thanks to a closed door.
The woman was discovered lying in bed, surrounded by gold, silver, and bronze coins, as well as her jewelry, while the man was found at the foot of the bed.
Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the site, highlighted the significance of this discovery for analyzing valuable anthropological data about the victims and understanding daily life in Pompeii.
When Mount Vesuvius erupted, it expelled a column of volcanic matter 10 miles high, burying Pompeii under up to 20 feet of debris and ash.
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius nearly two thousand years ago buried the prosperous city near Naples in volcanic ash.
Pompeii is recognized as an active archaeological park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing valuable insights into ancient Roman life.
Archaeologists have reconstructed the furnishings of the room, which included a bed, a trunk, a lamp, and a marble-topped table.
Today, Pompeii is one of Italy's most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors eager to explore its preserved remains.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources
CBS News • Aug 12, 2024
2 victims of ancient Pompeii eruption found, along with gold treasuresGround News • Aug 12, 2024
Archaeologists find two more skeletons at Pompeii siteGround News • Aug 12, 2024
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Archaeologists find two more skeletons at Pompeii site