Ancient Roman Artwork Discovered in Pompeii Two Millenniums Post-Volcanic Eruption

A recent expedition at the ruins of Pompeii revealed an array of centuries-old Roman paintings. These artworks, depicting characters from Greek mythology, were preserved in a dining room that was buried under volcanic ash after the catastrophic eruption in 79 A.D.

The room is approximately 50 feet by 20 feet, opening onto a courtyard featuring an outdoor room and a grand staircase that leads to the first level. The Archaeological Park of Pompeii, the establishment leading the dig, converses about the opulence of the room, characterized by black walls with mythological frescoes, discovered during the recent excavation in block No. 10, 9th section.

The black wall aesthetic was designed to hide the smoke from oil lamps, according to Gabriel Zuchtriegel, park director. He indicated that the room was used after sundown, and the gentle lamp glow would make the paintings seem animated, especially after a few glasses of high-quality Campanian wine.

Underneath the building, archaeologists found a mound of construction materials under the staircase arches, which bore a drawing of two pairs of gladiators drawn with charcoal.

The unearthed artworks portrayed figures like Helen of Troy and Cassandra, showcasing themes of heroism, fate, and the belief that humans hold the power to alter their destiny—all set against the background of the infamous Trojan War.

Characters such as Cassandra, the seer who, although blessed with foresight, was cursed by Apollo to never be heeded. Zuchtriegel highlighted that these stories, seemingly romantic, actually delve deeper, exploring individual relationships and fate.

More discoveries await unveiling, connecting two houses under renovation at the eruption’s time. These archaeological revelations solidify Pompeii as a cultural treasure, providing historical insights ever since its rediscovery in 1748 by Spanish engineer, Roque Joaqui?n de Alcubierre De Alcubierre.