Excavations at the archaeological site of Pompeii in southern Italy have brought to light an imposing dining hall with walls decorated with figures inspired by the mythology of the Trojan War.
Completely visible after the work of archaeologists, the 90 square meter space bears witness to a refined lifestyle in the residence, where rich frescoes and mosaics entertained representatives of Pompeii's elite at banquets and conversations.
The dominant theme seems to be heroism, with representations of couples of heroes and deities from the Trojan War, but also the possibility of human beings changing their own destiny.
In addition to Helen and Paris, whose love was the trigger for the most famous conflict in Greek mythology, the walls of the hall depict Cassandra, daughter of Priam, king of Troy, alongside the god Apollo.
In Greek mythology, Cassandra was known for her gift of foresight and the terrible fate that prevents her from changing the future. Despite her ability to see beyond the present, no one believes her words due to a curse from Apollo, which makes it impossible for her to avoid the tragic events of the Trojan War.
Excavations at the site are part of a broad project to ensure the safety of Pompeii's vast heritage, which has more than 13 rooms in 1.070 housing units, as well as public and sacred spaces.
“Pompeii is truly a treasure chest that never ceases to surprise and amaze us. Every time we dig, we find something beautiful and meaningful,” said Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano.
According to the director of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the new hall revealed was used for banquets after dark, and the mythological couples served as a starting point to talk about the past and life, about loves and relationships between individuals, but also of destination.
“Cassandra, who can see the future, but no one believes; Apollo, who sides with the Trojans against the Greek invaders, but, despite being a god, is unable to guarantee victory; Helen and Paris, whose politically incorrect love is the cause of the war, or perhaps a pretext. Today, Helena and Páris are all of us: every day we can choose between worrying only about our intimate lives or investigating how it is intertwined with the big story,” she said.
Located on the outskirts of Naples, Pompeii was destroyed by an eruption of Vesuvius, which covered the ancient city with volcanic material and left a trail of petrified bodies to this day.
The archaeological site is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Italy, taking turns leading the ranking with the Colosseum of Roma and the Gallerie degli Uffizi, in Florence. (HANDLE)
FOLLOW-US
