Remarkable pictures depict Apollo, Cassandra
Archaeologists in Pompeii have uncovered a black-walled banqueting hall adorned with vivid frescoes depicting scenes from Greek mythology.
The well-preserved wall paintings depict deity Apollo seeking to seduce the Trojan priestess Cassandra, and Helen of Troy meeting Paris, which would lead to war. (Photo: Agencies)
Open-air service passageway
The banqueting hall, which is around 15 metres by six metres (50 feet by 20 feet), opens into a courtyard that seems to be an open-air service passageway, with a staircase ascending to the first floor. (Photo: Agencies)
Black walls to prevent smoke
The hall, with its largely intact mosaic floor, was discovered during an excavation that also revealed a bakery, a laundry, and homes with lavish frescoed living rooms. The walls were black to prevent the smoke from the lamps on the walls from being seen. (Photo: Agencies)
Portraying Roman social, cultural life
"Pompeii is truly a treasure chest that never ceases to surprise us and arouse amazement because, every time we dig, we find something beautiful and significant," Culture Minister Gennaro Sanguiliano said. The spacious hall exemplifies the high standard of living in Pompeii's domus, offering a glimpse into Roman social life and cultural values. (Photo: Agencies)
Cassandra, cursed for rejection
The frescoes depict themes of heroism and destiny, showcasing the intricate relationship between individuals and fate. Cassandra, cursed by Apollo for her rejection, possesses the ability to foresee the future but is tragically disbelieved by all.
Destroyed 2,000 years ago, in 79 AD
The hall, which features a mosaic floor, was uncovered as part of a project to shore up the areas dividing the excavated and unexcavated parts of Pompeii, the ancient city near Naples that was destroyed in AD 79 when Mount Vesuvius erupted. (Photo: Agencies)
Italy's second most visited site
Pompeii, designated as a Unesco world heritage site, stands as Italy's second most visited tourist destination, surpassed only by the Colosseum in Rome. Archaeologists suggest that 15 to 20 percent of Pompeii's population perished in the eruption, primarily due to thermal shock caused by a massive cloud of gases and ash engulfing the city. (Photo: Agencies)
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