An extraordinary find at the Pompeii archaeological site has sent waves of excitement through the archaeological community in Italy. The unearthing of a remarkably intact ceremonial chariot, hailed as the first artifact of its kind ever found in the country, has shed new light on the ancient world. Massimo Osanna, who recently steered the site as its director, expressed reverence for the find, calling it “an extraordinary discovery for the advancement of our knowledge of the ancient world.”

The ancient city of Pompeii, famously destroyed by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD, has long been a treasure trove for ongoing archaeological studies since the 1700s. The ceremonial chariot, meticulously unearthed since its discovery on January 7, 2021, was found inside the portico of a stable outside the main settlement’s walls. Nearby remains of three animals, one of them a horse still adorned in its harness, further underlined the significance of the discovery.

Described as having four wheels and adorned with beautiful bronze and tin decorations, the chariot also bears imprints of organic materials such as ropes and floral decorations. This pristine condition of the find has astounded experts, prompting the Archaeological Park of Pompeii to issue a news release praising it as “an exceptional discovery.” The release highlighted the unique nature of this find in Italy, emphasizing its excellent state of preservation and its potential to deepen our understanding of the ancient world.

Archaeologists studying the site have also expressed awe at the discovery, noting its rarity as an ornamental vehicle rather than a utilitarian one. Eric Poehler, a Roman archaeologist and Pompeii specialist, lauded the find for its authenticity, existing as it did on the day of the catastrophic eruption. Poehler remarked that Pompeii continues to deliver surprises, stating, “Today is another great day for archaeology, and it is the kind that only Pompeii can provide.”

Believed to have been used for celebrations and parades, the chariot may have also played a role in transporting new brides to their homes. The treasure, nearly lost to looters who had tunneled extensively in and around the site, was fortunately salvaged after the illegal activity was uncovered by police in 2017. Currently, two individuals residing above the site face trial for their involvement in the looting, which park officials describe as having severely impacted the area in recent years.