What Can We Learn About Ancient Roman Life From These Uncovered Paintings?
The fresco paintings were found in a visually stunning buried room. Parco Archeologico di PompeiNews that is entertaining to read
Subscribe for free to get more stories like this directly to your inboxArchaeologists frequently get a first glimpse at a world that has not existed for thousands of years … and that’s precisely what happened in an area of Pompeii that has remained untouched since Mount Vesuvius erupted nearly 2,000 years ago.
Stunning black walls
When teams of archaeologists began meticulously excavating the spot officially known as Block #10 of the ancient Roman city’s 9th Section, they found one area that was utterly unique. It was marked by pitch-black walls contrasted against white floors and experts believe that it was a “spectacular dining room” most likely utilized by some of the wealthiest citizens of the time.
Even more captivating than the walls were the fresco paintings still visible thereon. And after all the centuries that have passed since they were painted, the subject matter was still readily identifiable.
Historians say the characters depicted on the walls came from Greek poet Homer’s telling of the Trojan War.
The paintings’ purpose
As for why so much effort was put into decorating this 50 foot by 20 foot room, the Archaeological Park of Pompeii said it was similar to the motivation behind modern elaborate residences.
“It provided a refined setting for entertainment during convivial moments, whether banquets or conversations, with the clear aim of pursuing an elegant lifestyle,” a press release explained.
And the primary focal point was most assuredly the artwork. Greek mythology was a big deal to Roman populations of the day — and these paintings told a specific story.
The park went on to conclude: “The dominant theme seems to be that of heroism, shown by the depictions of pairs of heroes and deities involved in the Trojan War, but also of fate and, at the same time, of the possibility, often not seized, that humans have of changing their own destiny.”