Pompeii has been an archaeological mystery since it was buried by a catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in August 79 AD. It is one of the most iconic sites of antiquity – an astonishing time capsule preserved by time-honoured ash and rock.
deFor centuries, visitors have been drawn to the city for its world-renowned for its artefacts, frescoes and stories of those who used to call these remains home. Now, ancient Pompeii is still being excavated and unearthing new revelations.
Archaeological excavations of Pompeii first began in 1748, initiated by the King of Naples, Charles III of Bourbon. For the next 200 years, large-scale digs began to uncover residential complexes, public spaces and burial grounds. Since then, the focus of the research has shifted towards greater understanding why it was preserved in such extraordinary detail. Through support from the European Commission and World Monument Fund, archaeologists continue to unlock the secrets of this lost city.
For the past 40 years, the Pompeii Archaeological Park has worked to preserve the remaining structures and prevent damage from modern-day pollution and vibrations. But, the site of Pompeii is still being excavated in the hopes of uncovering new artefacts and insights. Excavations are still being carried out in the so-called “House of the Suffering,” located in Regio V, of the ruins of ancient Pompeii. The structure, erected in the first century BC, acquired its name from a frescoe discovered in its main room.
Archeologist work to record the finds and remove them from the area, to be studied in a laboratory and later exhibited in a museum. So far, the excavation has discovered three complete masonry structures located within a garden. With the help of archaeologists and historians, this investigation is providing new information about the domestic architecture in Pompeii, offering a better understanding of the city’s past inhabitants.
Aside from artefacts, the research has revealed an astonishing level of detail about the lives of those who called this place home. The discovery of the “House of the Suffering” saw the preservation of an entire frescoe, depicting two women and a man discussing an issue of increasing importance to the people of Pompeii. According to leading scholars, this scene captured the essence of debates regarding law and justice in Ancient Roman society. Furthermore, the frescoe reveals patterns of human behaviour during this period and even opens up conversations about gender roles.
The discoveries of Pompeii’s past are invaluable. Not only do these incredible finds bring us closer to a real account of life in antiquity, but the preservation of these remains gives us the opportunity to witness a vividly reconstructed world. Through the lens of history, we can gain a unique understanding of the past – an incomparable time capsule resting beneath the layers of dust.
The Impact on the Modern World
Archaeologists are not simply uncovering secrets about the past, but about the present, too. As the team carefully cleans and studies the frescoes and pottery found in Pompeii, they use this knowledge to gain understanding on how different cultures interact. Consequently, excavations are providing us with a more holistic perspective on the realities of living in ancient Roman times.
Discoveries of early medical treatments, such as the installation of aqueducts in Pompeii and its surrounding areas, can provide us with ideas on how to improve current medical practices. The unearthed recipes can potentially offer us insights into more nutrition-packed meals. Not to mention, that many of today’s cosmetic treatments are based off the ancient Pompeii’s recipes.
Ultimately, Pompeii holds immense importance for the world today. Many leading experts have suggested that the ruins serve as a warning – that a single act of nature can dramatically shape the future for centuries and beyond. From the political to the religious, the state of the city and those who sought refuge amidst its walls inspire numerous interpretations.
Environmental Impact of Excavations
Despite the importance of excavating Pompeii, the site is not immune from environmental damage or reckless restorations. Many conservationists have argued that the site is being “loved to death”, with archaeologists and local authorities often prioritising the reach of archaeological research over the preservation of the environment.
In addition to the damage caused by traditional excavation, the increasing number of onsite visitors bring in the double burden of the public’s own carbon footprint. Furthermore, the excavations are likely to damage the stabile materials of the area, making it vulnerable to the threat of erosion. This could be why, in 2019, the city noticed a dramatic decrease in tourism numbers, due to damage from heavy rain.
Furthermore, a project in the 1990s saw Pompeii becoming the first open-air laboratory in the world. This allowed them to investigate the site’s seismic behaviour, as well as its capability to withstand future earthquakes. It is important to note that the introduction of this technology carries a risk of weakening the already fragile structures.
In summary, although routine excavation is an essential method of researching this site, dismantling the ruins to discover more information can be a risky process. It is therefore important that researchers employ a more respectful approach, respecting the direct impact excavations can have on the stability and structure of Pompeii.
Controversy and Politics of Excavations
Pompeii’s importance and world renown archeological significance has drawn growing attention from politicians, entrepreneurs and even tourists. Indeed, for some exploitation of the site for entertainment and commercial objectives has been on the rise. From camera-clicking groups to disrespectful graffiti, many have disregarded the ruins as mere entertainment.
As the fascination and investment in Pompeii has grown, so have disputes over the city’s ownership. The current system sees the site’s excavation and preservation in the hands of the local Pompeii Archaeological Park. Despite this, many local communities, as well as regional businesses, have sought to capitalise on the heritage of the site, often disregarding the authority of the Archaeological Park.
To counter this, the Italian government has taken a strong stance on keeping the site under the authority of the Archaeological Park, increasing the fines for illegal commercial activities. So far, this action has taken a move to guarantee the sanctity of the lost city and the preservation of its secrets.
Economic Benefits of Excavations
Not all the political aspects of excavations are as intense, however. Indeed, the ongoing archaeological research of the city has proven to hold great potential for the Campania region, revitalising the economy of the local town.
Pompeii draws tourists from all over the world and has, in recent years, grown to be one of the most visited sites in Europe. Consequently, this has not only created hundreds of employment opportunities for the local community, but also increased profits for the region.
Furthermore, the expansion of local businesses located in the ruins has resulted in a higher capacity for archaeological research. From restorers to tour guides, local businesses have enabled the excavations and research of the area to flourish under the watchful eye of the Archaeological Park.
From the increased visitor flow, it is clear that the impact of archaeology is not limited to the present. Excavations are inspiring generations to explore, understand and appreciate the cultural accomplishments of antiquity.
Research Challenges
Due to the overwhelming scale of research projects, such as the excavations, the data analysis required is complex. This is further compounded by the fact that the ruins are a target for the looting and plundering of artefacts.
It is now more important then ever for archaeologists to protect the site and conserve the records of their research. Consequently, this has sparked the development of a new technological system for registering and tracking artefacts digitally.
PopUpArch is an ensemble of several systems that runs behind an intuitive and interactive web portal, giving users access to a virtual world. This project seeks to form a virtual layer of information over the physical ‘houses’, melding both the physical evidence and the contemporary research. Through a safety blanket of technology, researchers are reassured of their role in preserving the past.
The Future of Excavations
The excavation of the city of Pompeii is still going to remain an ongoing project regardless of its complications. The Fendi-UNESCO restoration project is currently underway, returning the two frescoes of the House of Suffering to how they were under ancient Roman rule. This initiative is part of a larger program to restore more of the lost frescoes and return them to their former state.
The project also aims to construct an edifice of protection for the city’s sculptures and artwork. The hope for this is that these necessary renovations will encourage the people of Pompeii to return to the city. It is estimated that this project, in combination with the preservation of the main streets, will be completed by 2022.
Ultimately, Pompeii is a place of perpetual discovery and vibrancy – a reminder of what has been and what could be. In the decades to come, the excavations will continue to reveal the future and past of this lost city – a heritage that belongs to all.