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Rome (dpa) - Archaeologists in Pompeii have succeeded in the sensational reconstruction of two ancient victims of the historical volcanic disaster on the Gulf of Naples.

The remains of the two men, who are believed to have been surprised by the eruption of Vesuvius on October 25, 79 AD, were found during excavations in the area of ​​a suburban villa, as reported by the museum in Pompeii.

The experts were enthusiastic about how many details they were able to find out about the duo, such as their clothing.

The researchers discovered the remains of a young person, presumably a servant, and a man who was thought to be between 30 and 40 years old.

According to their analyzes, the older victim was dressed more elaborately and wore a tunic and a woolen coat.

The excavations at the villa in Civita Giulina, around 700 meters northwest of Pompeii, had been going on for some time.

In 2017 horse remains were also discovered there.

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The results now presented on the men were made possible because the skeletons were located in cavities under solidified volcanic ash, it was said.

The researchers used lasers and computer animation.

A method that had been used for a long time was then used to make casts of the bodies.

Italy's Minister of Culture, Dario Franceschini, spoke of an "extraordinary discovery".

The museum grounds of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii are closed because of the corona pandemic - like all museums in Italy.

But the research continues.

Pompeii was sunk in the eruptions of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Ash, mud and lava buried the settlements.

The historic city was rediscovered in the 18th century.

Since then, new findings have come to light again and again.

The archaeological site is one of the most popular sights in Italy.

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© dpa-infocom, dpa: 201121-99-414762 / 2

Press release by the Ministry of Culture;

Italian

Museum website, English