Officials at the Pompeii archeological 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 the Pompeii archeological site in Italy announced on Saturday the discovery of an intact ceremonial chariot, one of several important discoveries made in the same area outside the park near Naples following an investigation into an illegal excavation.
The chariot, with its iron elements, bronze decorations and mineralized wooden remains, was found in the ruins of a settlement north of Pompeii, beyond the walls of the ancient city, parked in the portico of a stable where the remains of three horses were. discovered.
The Pompeii Archaeological Park called the chariot “an exceptional discovery” and said it “represents a unique discovery – which has no parallel in Italy so far – in excellent condition.”
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. destroyed Pompeii. The chariot was spared when the walls and roof of the structure in which it was collapsed and also survived the robbery of ancient thieves, who dug tunnels to the spot, grazing, but without damaging the cart. with four wheels, according to park officials.
The chariot was found on the site of what is one of the most significant ancient villas in the area around Vesuvius, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. on the outskirts of the old Roman city.
Archaeologists found last year in the same area on the outskirts of Pompeii, Civita Giulian, the skeletal remains of those believed to have been a rich man and his male slave, trying to escape death.
The first iron element of the chariot appeared on January 7 from the blanket of volcanic material that filled the portico with two floors. Archaeologists believe that the cart was used for festivities and parades, perhaps to transport brides to their new homes.
While chariots for everyday life or transportation of agricultural products were previously found in Pompeii, officials said the new discovery is the first ceremonial chariot to be unearthed in its entirety.
The villa was discovered after police came across illegal tunnels in 2017, officials said. Two people living in the houses on the site are currently being tried for allegedly digging more than 80 meters of tunnels in that place.