In 79 CE Mount Vesuvius erupted and buried Pompeii. Volcanic ash preserved buildings, objects and organic remains, giving scientists a rare opportunity to study details of daily life.
Researchers analysed ash residues from two incense burners found in Pompeii and a nearby villa. The study was led by Johannes Eber of the University of Zurich. Maxime Rageot from the University of Bonn carried out biomolecular investigations, and LMU archaeologist Philipp W. Stockhammer said his ERC research group initiated the work. The team used a range of modern laboratory methods.
Analyses identified local plant remains and materials from farther away. The researchers found traces of an exotic tree resin likely from tropical Africa or Asia, and molecular tests detected a grape product in one burner, matching known Roman ritual use of wine. Scientists combined chemical and microscopic techniques to reach these conclusions. The work shows Pompeii had wide trade connections and used imported materials in household altars. The research appears in Antiquity.
Difficult words
- preserve — to keep something safe from damagepreserved
- residue — small amounts left after a processresidues
- incense burner — a container used to burn aromatic substancesincense burners
- biomolecular — relating to molecules in living things
- archaeologist — a scientist who studies ancient human remains
- resin — a sticky plant substance used for perfumetree resin
- ritual — a set of actions done for religious reasons
- microscopic — so small it needs a microscope to see
- altar — a table or platform used in religious ceremoniesaltars
- import — to bring goods into a country for saleimported
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Discussion questions
- How does volcanic ash help scientists learn about daily life in Pompeii?
- Why is finding imported materials, like exotic resin, important for our view of Roman cities?
- Would you like to visit Pompeii and see these findings? Why or why not?
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