Archaeologists have uncovered ancient footprints in Italy’s Salerno province, revealing the desperate escape of Pompeii inhabitants from an earlier eruption of Mount Vesuvius nearly 3,000 years ago. The markings were made over 1,000 years before the infamous 79 AD eruption that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum.
The discovery was made during excavation work for a gas pipeline in the southeast, according to the Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape for the Provinces of Salerno and Avellino.
The footprints, preserved in volcanic ash near the Casarzano stream, were left by humans and animals fleeing an eruption of Mount Somma, a part of the Somma–Vesuvius volcanic complex.
Researchers believe the tracks were made by men, women, children and livestock, some barefoot and others wearing basic footwear, as they tried to escape the disaster. Alongside the tracks, archeologists found pottery, plates and tools, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the ancient community.
Nearby, a burial site containing graves, primarily of children, was uncovered. These were covered with slabs of volcanic rock, some of which were intricately carved. The findings suggest a well-organized society that thrived between the late Bronze Age and the early Iron Age, around 1200 to 1150 BCE.
Discovery of a lost village with huts
Further excavation revealed the remains of a village with huts, built during the same time period. Archeologists uncovered earth foundations and fragments of ceramics, which indicate a structured settlement existed in the area. The evidence points to a community that lived and worked here long before the infamous eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, which buried Pompeii and Herculaneum.
In addition to the Bronze Age village, researchers discovered an ancient sanctuary near Nuceria Alfaterna, dating to the 3rd or 2nd century BCE. The sanctuary, located along a significant ancient road, yielded numerous ceramic artifacts believed to have been votive offerings. Experts say these items will provide valuable insights into the religious practices and deities worshipped at the time.
Through extensive study of the site, archeologists confirmed that a massive volcanic eruption occurred more than 1,000 years before Vesuvius’s well-documented eruption in 79 CE. This earlier event covered the region with ash and pyroclastic material, preserving footprints and artifacts under layers of volcanic debris. The eruption’s impact was so severe that it likely reshaped the local landscape and displaced communities.
Two Roman-era villas discovered
During the two-year investigation researchers also uncovered two monumental Roman-era villas in the same area. These structures, believed to have been used for agricultural production, included additional burial sites. The finds add another layer of history to the region, illustrating its continuous habitation and agricultural importance.
The excavation was conducted over two years by Sogearch under the supervision of the Superintendency. The work was part of a project to facilitate the construction of a gas pipeline but has also provided crucial information about the area’s rich history.
The discovery of Pompeii footprints and pottery after the Mount Vesuvius eruption underscores the resilience of ancient communities and their ability to adapt to catastrophic events.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
