ROME (AP) — Archaeologists excavating new sites in Pompeii have uncovered a sumptuous banquet hall decorated with intricately frescoed mythological characters inspired by the Trojan War, officials said Thursday. 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 A.D. 79 when Mount Vesuvius erupted. The banquet hall was used for refined entertaining and features black walls, a technique that prevented the smoke from oil lamps from being seen, said Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii archaeological park. The figures painted against that black backdrop include Helen of Troy and Apollo. Experts said the reference to mythological figures was designed to entertain guests and provide conversation starters. |
Friendly visa policies to help boost tourismHighlights of Asian Cup 2022Saudi Arabia stuns Argentina in World Cup Group CCai still reaching for the skyAlibaba set to launch new global headquarters next yearChina, Indonesia communicating over chemical plant blastXi Meets Senegalese President in JohannesburgCai still reaching for the skyChina's border exits and entries see dramatic increases during Spring FestivalChina defeats Brazil, to battle Poland in VNL Finals semis