Two nearly life-sized statues found during tomb excavations in Pompeii
Rome, April 2 (Hibya) – During excavations of a massive tomb in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, two nearly life-sized statues of a man and a woman—believed to be religious figures—were discovered.
The detailed remains of the tomb were found in the Porta Sarno necropolis, one of the main gates of the ancient city, and included several burial niches built into a large wall. Pompeii was destroyed in AD 79 by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
Experts believe the female statue represents an important local woman, likely a priestess of Ceres—the Roman goddess of agriculture, fertility, and motherhood—suggested by her accessories such as crescent-shaped pendant, earrings, rings, and bracelets.
The woman wears a veil and a large cloak over a tunic, while the man wears a toga draped over his left shoulder.
However, experts are not convinced the figures—dated to the late Roman Republic—represent a married couple.
Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, stated:
“Given her elite appearance, and the fact that she holds plants and what looks like a papyrus scroll, she might have been a priestess of Ceres.”
British News Agency
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