Pompeii: remains of two men uncovered in the Porta Stabia necropolis

Pompeii: discoveries in the Porta Stabia necropolis

Recent excavation campaigns just outside Pompeii’s city walls, in the Porta Stabia necropolis, have uncovered the skeletal remains of two individuals who tried to flee during the AD 79 eruption of Vesuvius. Preliminary field assessments indicate the two men died at different stages of the event and from different causes related to the volcanic disaster.

Findings from the excavation

• One individual shows evidence consistent with being overwhelmed by a pyroclastic surge.
• The other appears to have died due to falling lapilli and volcanic debris.
• Personal items found near the bodies include a cracked terracotta mortar, a ceramic oil lamp, a small iron ring on the left little finger, and a hoard of ten bronze coins—objects that help reconstruct the escape attempts.

The position of the remains and the condition of the artifacts provide insights into the actions taken by those fleeing and the visibility and protective measures available during the eruption.

Digital reconstruction and artificial intelligence

A experimental digital reconstruction of one of the victims was produced by combining artificial intelligence tools with photo-editing techniques to make the findings more accessible to the public. Experts stress that, used with methodological rigor and archaeological oversight, AI can speed up data processing and enhance outreach, but it does not replace professional interpretation.

Research and heritage implications

These discoveries add important evidence about the dynamics of the AD 79 eruption and provide material to study escape routes toward the coast. Fieldwork continues as part of the excavation campaigns managed by the Pompeii Archaeological Park, which remains responsible for conservation and study.

Location

Site: 80045 Pompei (NA), Italy
Coordinates: 40.7479508, 14.4904025

Related to debates on digital tools in cultural heritage, the "Orbits – Dialogues with Intelligence" series is scheduled for July 2026 at the Pompeii Archaeological Park, focusing on the ethics and impact of AI in conservation.

For visiting information, guided tours and opening updates, check official communications from the Pompeii Archaeological Park before planning a trip.