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Image Credit: Parco Archeologico di Pompei
Man Used Mortar to Shield Himself During Vesuvius Eruption
Archaeological investigations in the Porta Stabia necropolis of Pompeii have revealed new details about the final moments of two victims of the AD 79 eruption of Mount Vesuvius, including a man who attempted to protect himself using a terracotta mortar.
Excavations conducted just outside the ancient city walls uncovered the remains of two individuals who were likely trying to reach the coast during the catastrophic event. Their deaths occurred at different stages of the eruption, offering valuable insight into how the disaster unfolded and how people responded along evacuation routes.
One of the victims, believed to be younger, appears to have been overtaken by a pyroclastic flow—a fast-moving cloud of ash and toxic gases. The second, an older man, died earlier during a heavy fall of lapilli, or volcanic stone fragments. Archaeologists found a broken terracotta mortar near his remains, suggesting he used it as a shield against falling debris. Alongside him were a ceramic oil lamp, likely used for visibility in darkened conditions, a small iron ring, and ten bronze coins.
The discovery echoes historical accounts recorded by Pliny the Younger, who described how people fleeing the eruption attempted to protect themselves with objects or cushions tied over their heads.
In a new development, the Archaeological Park of Pompeii has presented a digital reconstruction of one of the victims. Created in collaboration with the University of Padua, the model combines archaeological data with artificial intelligence and photo-editing techniques. It represents the institution’s first use of AI to generate a scientifically informed visual interpretation based on excavation data.
Researchers emphasize that the reconstruction is an experimental prototype designed to make archaeological findings more accessible to a broader audience while maintaining scientific grounding.
The project also contributes to ongoing discussions about the role of artificial intelligence in archaeology. Specialists involved in the initiative highlight that, while AI can assist in analyzing large volumes of data and improving communication, its use must remain carefully controlled and guided by methodological rigor.
The findings underscore the complexity of the Pompeii disaster, which unfolded in less than a day but affected individuals in different ways depending on timing and location. They also demonstrate how new technologies can enhance the interpretation and presentation of ancient evidence without replacing the role of archaeologists.
Published on: 27-04-2026
Edited by: Abdulmnam Samakie
Source: Euronews
