Mysterious artifact covered by volcanic ash for thousands of years - This is a 'witch treasure'

Archaeologists have announced that they have found signs of the existence of "witches" in Roman times when studying the ruins of the city of Pompeii.

Huge collection of items believed to be witches. (Photo: BBC)

In an area of ​​more than 21 hectares of the archaeological park Pompeii (Italy) known as Regio V , archaeologists have unearthed a large collection of diverse items believed to be part of the "treasure of witches" with various jewels and amulets.

The objects were found in a room of the Casa del Giardino house type . Pompeii archeological park director Massimo Osanna said: "The items were probably placed in a wooden box, because archaeologists have found that the 'remains' of the box are completely complete. destroyed, only a bronze hinge is left, which has been covered by volcanic ash over the centuries.

A piece of glass was found believed to be engraved with Dionysus, the Roman god of the vine, fertility and madness. (Photo: Parco Archeologico di Pompei).

However, the "witch treasures" were found in fairly well-preserved condition, including round gems, rings, a necklace with effigy, two mirrors, and other oddly-shaped items made in crystal, ceramic, quartz and amber. Inside the box were several bone fragments, a medieval amulet in the shape of a scarab, and a necklace with a carved head of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, fertility and frenzy.

According to archaeologists, the quality of the amber and glass fragments found confirm that Casa del Giardino was the residence of a high-class individual. However, Massimo Osanna said that the absence of gold (a metal greatly favored by the rich of Pompeii) suggests that the treasure may not belong to those in high status but to a maid. or slaves in the house.

The items are not the same as decorations. They were probably used in rituals. (Photo: Parco Archeologico di Pompei).

He also observed: "Items are not like ornaments. They were probably used in rituals to ward off bad luck as well as in childbearing ceremonies, wishing for good omens for pregnancy and birth. bloom".

In the room where the "witch's treasure" was found , archaeologists also found the bodies of 10 more victims, including women and children, wrapped in volcanic ash. Mr. Massimo Osanna said: "Perhaps the precious box belongs to one of these victims. DNA analysis of these bodies will be carried out to determine the relationship between these people. At the same time, experts will also will do more research on the symbols and related symbols on the finds to better understand their meaning and function."

Items found in the "witch treasure". (Photo: BBC).

Talking a little more about the ancient city of Pompeii , this is a rich and extremely busy city-state during the heyday of the Roman Empire, located in western Italy, at the foot of the Vesuvius volcano. The wealthy merchant aristocracy at that time often flocked here to seek pleasure, so Pompeii is also known as the "Capital of Liquor".

Unfortunately, it was buried during the eruption of the Vesuvius volcano in 79 AD. However, most of the victims died from the gas and ash from the volcano, rather than from lava.