Archaeologists have unearthed a unique Roman ceremonial carriage from a villa just outside Pompeii, the city buried during a volcanic eruption in 79 AD.
The almost perfectly preserved four-wheeled carriage of iron, bronze and tin was found near the stables of an ancient villa in Civita Giuliana, about 700 meters north of the walls of ancient Pompeii.
Massimo Osanna, the outgoing director of the Pompeii archaeological site, said the carriage was the first of its kind to be discovered in the area and had thus far produced functional vehicles used for transportation and work, but not ceremonies.
“This is an extraordinary discovery that increases our understanding of the ancient world,” said Osanna, adding that the carriage would have accompanied celebratory moments for the community, such as parades and processions.
The Ministry of Culture called it a unique find, with no precedent in Italy.
Pompeii, 14 miles southeast of Naples, was home to about 13,000 people when it was buried under ash, pumice and dust when it endured the force of an eruption equal to many atomic bombs.
About two-thirds of the 66-acre old town has been uncovered. The ruins were not discovered until the 16th century and organized excavations started around 1750.
“Pompeii continues to amaze us with its discoveries and will do so for many years to come, with 20 hectares still to be excavated,” said Italian Culture Minister Dario Franceschini.
A rare documentation of Greco-Roman life, Pompeii is one of Italy’s most popular attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.