Officials at the Pompeii Archaeological Site in Italy have announced the discovery of an intact ceremonial chariot, one of several important discoveries made outside the park following an investigation into an illegal excavation.
MILAN – Officials at Pompeii’s archeological site in Italy announced on Saturday the discovery of an intact ceremonial chariot, one of several important discoveries made in the same area on the outskirts of the park near Naples after an investigation into an illegal excavation .
The chariot, with its iron elements, bronze decorations, and remains of mineralized wood, was found in the ruins of a settlement north of Pompeii, beyond the walls of the ancient city, parked on the portico of a established where previously were the remains of three horses. uncovered.
The Pompeii Archaeological Park called the car “an exceptional discovery” and said it “represents a unique find – which so far has no parallel in Italy – in excellent condition.”
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD destroyed Pompeii. The cart was saved when the walls and ceiling of the structure in which it was found collapsed, and it also survived the looting of modern antique thieves, who had dug tunnels to the site, grazing but without damaging the cart. of four wheels, according to the park. officials.
The cart was found on the site of what is one of the most significant ancient villages in the area around Vesuvius, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. on the outskirts of the ancient Roman city.
Archaeologists found last year in the same area on the outskirts of Pompeii, Civita Giulian, the skeletal remains of what is believed to be a rich man and his slave, trying to escape death.
The first iron element of the chariot arose on January 7 from the blanket of volcanic material that filled the two-story portico. Archaeologists believe the chariot was used for parties and parades, perhaps also to bring brides to their new homes.
Although carts have previously been found for daily living or transporting agricultural products to Pompeii, officials said the new find is the first ceremonial car unearthed in its entirety.
The village was discovered after police encountered illegal tunnels in 2017, officials said. Currently, two people living in the houses located at the top of the site are being prosecuted for allegedly digging more than 80 meters of tunnels at the site.