SAEDNEWS: Archaeologists have uncovered a shrouded skeleton buried around 2,200 years ago in a tomb adorned with unusual wall paintings.
According to Saed News’ Society Desk, last year, archaeologists in Italy were thrilled after discovering a 2,200-year-old tomb adorned with stunning wall paintings, including depictions of Cerberus, the three-headed guard dog of the underworld, and ichthyocentaurs—mythical sea creatures with human heads and torsos, horse forelegs, and fish tails.
Now, researchers have conducted further analysis of the tomb, known as the Cerberus Tomb in Giuliano, located near an ancient Roman cemetery. Excavations have revealed the skeleton of an individual wrapped in a shroud and surrounded by various grave goods, including ointment jars and a strigil, a personal hygiene tool used by Romans to scrape off dirt, sweat, and oil before bathing.
According to a statement from Italy’s Ministry of Culture, the deceased, remarkably well-preserved, was buried on their back. The ministry noted that the tomb’s unique microclimate appears to have mineralized the shroud, helping preserve the remains.
Researchers from multiple disciplines—including archaeology, chemistry, paleobotany, and anthropology—are working together to learn more about the individual, who was likely an ancestor of the family for whom the tomb was constructed. The interdisciplinary team also plans to study the shroud to determine the origin of its fibers.
Ancient pollen samples from the tomb indicate the deceased was treated with ointments containing wormwood as well as Chenopodium (commonly known as goosefoot), a genus of flowering herbaceous plants.
Archaeologists are still awaiting DNA results, which could reveal the individual’s ancestry and whether they carried any genetic conditions.
Mariano Nuzzo, head of Italy’s Ministry of Culture, said in the statement: “The Cerberus Tomb provides invaluable information about the Phlegraean Fields, a vast volcanic area near the ancient city of Liternum. Insights from this tomb are expanding our understanding of the past and offering new opportunities for multidisciplinary research.”
