Archeology

February 20, 2024

Ancient Roman Scroll Burned by Mount Vesuvius Eruption Is Now Readable Thanks To AI

Mount Vesuvius erupted in the year 79 CE. Lava coursed down the slopes while ash erupted into the sky, blanketing the nearby region in a veil of scorching death. Civilians in Pompeii were drowned in the ash, their bodies found many centuries later as cavities in the calcified layers of ash that preserved their crouched and protective stances. Frescoes on building walls were also perfectly preserved.

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January 16, 2024

Archeologists Open 2,600-Year-Old Etruscan Tomb Unearthing Ancient Treasures

Before the ancient Romans built the Colosseum and other amazing feats of engineering, the Etruscans ruled parts of Italy. Their territory extended from the Veneto region to Campania at its highest point. However, its rise was brought to an end during the Roman-Etruscan wars. While overshadowed by its successor, remnants of the Etruscans can still be found throughout Italy. Recently, a 2,600-year-old Etruscan tomb was opened 100 miles northwest of Rome, revealing many ancient treasures.

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January 12, 2024

Pompeii Excavations Turn Up Prison Bakery Run by Enslaved Labor

Pompeii—the Roman-era village preserved under layers of ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius—has long fascinated historians. Discovered in the 18th century, excavations have been ongoing since 1748. After centuries, much still remains to be discovered and documented. Recently, during excavations of a villa, a disturbing structure emerged in the dig. The archeologists announced they found a prison-bakery, where enslaved people were forced to work alongside donkeys in brutal conditions to grind flour for bread.

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