Archaeologists Make 'Once-in-a-Century' Discovery in Pompeii
In an extraordinary find, archaeologists in Pompeii have uncovered what is being called a "once-in-a-century" discovery—an opulent bathhouse that has been hidden beneath layers of rock and ash for over 2,000 years. This discovery, shared exclusively with BBC News, reveals one of the largest bathhouses ever found in the ancient Roman city, located within a grand residential estate first uncovered two years ago.
A Luxurious Bathhouse Fit for the Elite
The bathhouse is a stunning example of luxury, featuring exquisite artwork and a large plunge pool, along with rooms for hot, warm, and cold baths. This lavish setup is reserved for the wealthiest individuals, as only a few elite homes in Pompeii had private bath complexes. Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the director of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, described the find as "probably the biggest bath complex in a Pompeiian private home," emphasizing the immense scale of the discovery. He added that these well-preserved spaces offer a unique glimpse into the everyday life of Pompeii, almost as if the people had just left moments ago.
Who Owned the Bathhouse?
The bathhouse is believed to have belonged to Aulus Rustius Verus, a prominent Pompeii politician. Verus is also thought to have operated a bakery and a laundry on the same street, further indicating his high status. This luxurious bathhouse adds to the evidence of Verus' elite position in Pompeii society.
Ongoing Excavations and Recent Finds
Archaeologists are continuing to excavate the estate, hoping to uncover more artifacts that shed light on the city's history. In August, the team discovered the remains of two individuals who tragically perished when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. One was an older woman, aged between 35 and 50, and the other was a young man, likely in his teens or early 20s. The woman was found clutching valuable jewelry and coins, suggesting she had taken refuge in a small room within the house to escape the eruption's devastation.
Ludovicia Alesse, a conservator at Pompeii, described the site as "dramatic," explaining that every discovery made there reveals more about the heartbreaking events that unfolded during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
Continued Excavations and Insights into Pompeii's Past
As excavations continue, the team hopes to uncover even more about the people and life in Pompeii before its destruction. The discovery of this bathhouse is just one of many steps in piecing together the daily experiences of the city's residents and the sudden catastrophe that ended their lives.
