Archaeologists Unearth Treasures Near Pompeii’s Eastern Edge
In a groundbreaking series of excavations near the renowned Roman ruins of Pompeii, archaeologists have stumbled upon a wealth of artifacts and structures that offer unprecedented insights into the area’s pre-Roman history. These remarkable findings, uncovered during the construction of an underground parking facility, provide a vivid glimpse into the lives of those who inhabited this region long before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
A Necropolis Frozen in Time
Among the most striking discoveries is a well-preserved necropolis containing 35 pre-Roman earthen pit burials. Each grave, meticulously covered with amphorae arranged in an alternating pattern, dates back to the 3rd-1st century BC. The presence of Punic inscriptions on these vessels suggests far-reaching trade connections with North Africa.
Preserved Remains and Precious Artifacts
The anaerobic conditions created by groundwater have resulted in exceptionally well-preserved skeletal remains. Accompanying these ancient bodies are funerary objects such as unguentarians and coins, offering valuable insights into burial practices of the time.
A Canal Rich with History
A nearby canal has yielded a treasure trove of pre-Roman artifacts, including hundreds of tile fragments, preserved wood, amphorae, and dolia. Of particular interest are 20 small columella crafted from volcanic stone, tiles bearing stamps in the local Oscan language, and a stone head carved from grey Campanian tufa, still adorned with traces of red paint.
Fields of the Past
Beneath layers of Vesuvian pumice, evidence of an extensive field system has been unearthed. This ancient agricultural network once supplied Roman Pompeii with fresh produce. Ongoing analysis of organic remains and pollen promises to reveal the types of vegetables grown in these fields, with early indications suggesting that perennial artichokes may have been a local specialty.
A Window into Pre-Roman Pompeii
These extraordinary discoveries provide a rare glimpse into the region’s history before Roman dominance. From North African influences in burial practices to the agricultural systems that sustained the growing city, each find adds a new piece to the puzzle of ancient Pompeii’s rich and complex past.
As archaeologists continue their work, the land surrounding Vesuvius may yet reveal more secrets about the civilizations that once thrived in its shadow, forever changing our understanding of this iconic historical site.
