In a remarkable discovery at the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, archaeologists have unearthed a fresco depicting the Greek mythological siblings Phrixus and Helle.
Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the director of Pompeii Archaeological Park, described the find as a poignant reflection of history unfolding again.
“History has repeated itself,” Zuchtriegel said as he gave an update on excavation and restoration work. “This is a beautiful fresco in an excellent state of preservation. The myth of Phrixus and Helle is widespread at Pompeii, but it is also current. They are two refugees at sea, a brother and sister, who are forced to flee because their stepmother wants to get rid of them and she does it with deception and corruption. His [Helle] fell into the water and drowned.”
The fresco displays vibrant colors and beautiful artistry, with Helle depicted on the verge of drowning, her face obscured by waves as she reaches out for her brother.
Zuchtriegel expressed optimism about making these meticulously preserved houses accessible to the public in the near future, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of this latest revelation.
The ancient city of Pompeii was destroyed in AD 79 by an eruption that killed more than 2,000 people. The ruins have become one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world.
The city, which attracts nearly 4 million visitors a year, has come a long way since 2013, when Unesco threatened to put it on its list of world heritage sites in danger unless Italian authorities improved its conservation.
Surprises unearthed in recent months include 13 Nativity-style figurines which provided evidence of pagan ritual traditions in the ancient Roman city and, last June, a striking still life fresco like a pizza which includes an item that looks suspiciously like a pineapple.
