A Roman chariot dating from the 1st century AD has been found intact near Pompeii

We all remember learning in our high school classes about the eruption of Vesuvius which destroyed the city of Pompeii. However, over the years, archaeologists have managed to unearth forgotten treasures from the ground. The latest one was found during an excavation in the suburbs of Civita Giuliana, where they got their hands on an object dating back to Roman times: a large bronze ceremonial chariot. The news was announced on the Archaeological Park of Pompeii website.

A precise function

The Archaeological Park of Pompeii said on February 27th:

A large ceremonial chariot with four wheels, along with its iron components, beautiful bronze and tin decorations, mineralised wood remains and imprints of organic materials (from the ropes to the remains of floral decoration), has been discovered almost intact.

This discovery is part of the fight against cultural looting, which is particularly active in this region full of archaeological treasures.

This chariot, discovered in a portico near a stable at a depth of 20 feet, had a function of its own. In fact, according to archaeologists, this pilentum was a vehicle dedicated to transporting the elite at ceremonial events. It was in the same place that, in 2018, the remains of three horses were found.

Affected by COVID-19

Minister of Culture Dario Franceschini in a press release issued by the Italian Archaeological Park:

Pompeii continues to amaze with all of its discoveries, and it will continue to do so for many years yet, with twenty hectares still to be excavated.

Massimo Osanna, the director of the archaeological park, said:

It is an extraordinary discovery for the advancement of our knowledge of the ancient world.

Although the site is in the open air, it had to close its doors to the public following the coronavirus pandemic like most Italian cultural sites. It reopened only recently, on January 18th to be precise. So tourists will once again be able to marvel at this treasure.