Pompeiis Revelation: Unveiling Life Under Slavery – Shiv Telegram Media
2 min read
The Unearthed Room in Pompeii Provides Insight into the Lives of Enslaved People
Archaeologists have made a fascinating discovery at the Villa Civita Giuliana near Pompeii, shedding light on the living conditions of enslaved individuals during ancient times. The recent find, a small room, has provided valuable insight into the harsh realities faced by the lower classes.
Inside the room, researchers found two beds, one of which had a mattress, indicating a possible hierarchy within the servants’ quarters. The presence of two different beds suggests that some individuals had a higher status than others. The room also contained two small cupboards and various ceramic containers and pots.
The volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD played a crucial role in preserving the room’s furniture and fabric. The encasement of these items by ash allowed for the remarkable preservation of their shapes and textures. By analyzing the pots and ceramics, archaeologists were able to discern the difficult circumstances in which the occupants lived.
It was also discovered that the room was infested with rodents, signaling the unsanitary and impoverished conditions experienced by the inhabitants. Surprisingly, there were no grates, locks, or chains, suggesting that control over the enslaved individuals was maintained through internal organization rather than physical barriers and restraints.
Excavations at the site first took place in 1907-1908, but further progress was halted until 2017 due to illegal digging. The renewed archaeological activity at the site is a result of a 105-million-euro EU-funded project, allowing researchers to continue uncovering valuable information about ancient life.
Pompeii, one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions, continues to captivate visitors with its rich history and significant finds. The recent discovery of the small room at the Villa Civita Giuliana provides yet another piece to the puzzle, allowing people to glimpse into the lives of enslaved individuals and gain a deeper understanding of the past.
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