Archaeologists have discovered a unique Roman ceremonial chariot in a villa on the outskirts of Pompeii, the city buried by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD.
The almost perfectly preserved four-wheel coach, made of iron, bronze and tin, was found near the stables of an old villa in Civita Giuliana, about 700 meters north of the walls of ancient Pompeii.
Massimo Osanna, the outgoing director of the archaeological site in Pompeii, said the carriage was the first of its kind discovered in the area, which has so far produced functional vehicles used for transportation and work, but not for ceremonies.
“This is an extraordinary discovery that advances our understanding of the ancient world,” said Osanna, adding that the carriage would have accompanied festive moments for the community, such as parades and processions.
The ministry of culture considered this a unique discovery, unprecedented in Italy.
Pompeii, 14 miles southeast of Naples, was home to some 13,000 people when it was buried under ash, pumice and dust while withstanding the force of an eruption equivalent to many atom bombs.
About two-thirds of the 66-hectare (165-acre) old city has been discovered. The ruins were not discovered until the 16th century and organized excavations started around 1750.
“Pompeii continues to surprise us with its discoveries and will do so for many years, with 20 hectares still to be unearthed,” said Italy’s Minister of Culture, Dario Franceschini.
A rare documentation of Greco-Roman life, Pompeii is one of Italy’s most popular attractions and a UNESCO world heritage site.