Archaeologists discover the well-preserved ancient “snack bar” in the ruins of Pompeii

The city of Pompeii was buried in a devastating volcanic eruption in 79 AD, but archaeologists are still discovering extraordinary structures in the region. On Saturday, they unveiled their latest find – an extremely well-preserved old snack bar.

Thermopolium in Regio V was said to be a store selling hot food, the equivalent of a modern street cart or fast food, officials said. It was partially excavated in 2019 and fully revealed on Saturday.

Objects such as the image of a nereid riding a sea horse and a fresco of gladiators in battle were found in ruins. In the most recent phase of the excavations, archaeologists discovered other colorful scenes of still life, including representations of animals that were probably sold in the store, such as cola ducks and a rooster.

There was also a description of a dog on a leash, which appeared to serve as a warning, as well as a complete skeleton of a dog between the store doors.

“A mocking inscription can be found scratched on the frame surrounding the dog’s painting: NICIA CINAEDE CACATOR – literally “Nicias (probably a free from Greece) Shameless Sh ***** !, officials said. “This was probably left by a prankster who sought to make fun of his owner or someone who worked at the Thermopolium.”

Archaeologists also found containers, which kept bone fragments of nearly 2,000-year-old animals that were sold there, stored on the store’s counter. Traces of pork, fish, snails and beef were found in containers, which archaeologist Valeria Amoretti said indicated “the wide variety of animal products used in the preparation of the dishes.”

In the square in front of the store was a fountain and a water tower. Inside the store were nine amphorae, a bronze bowl called a patera, two balloons and other ceramic jars.

Human bones were also found at the scene, some belonging to a 50-year-old man who appeared to have been in bed at the time of the eruption.

“Apart from the fact that it represents a different perspective on the daily life in Pompeii, the study possibilities of this Thermopolium are exceptional, because for the first time an area of ​​this type was excavated in its entirety and it was possible to perform all the analyzes. that current technology allows, “said Massimo Osanna of the Pompeii Archaeological Park.” The findings will be further analyzed in the laboratory and, in particular, the remains found in the dolia (terracotta containers) at the counter are expected to provide data. exceptional to inform an understanding of what was sold and was the diet. “

According to officials, Thermopolia, where locals enjoyed hot drinks and food, was very common in ancient Rome, when people usually ate outside the house. Pompey alone had 80 of them.