In a recent excavation at the Insula dei Casti Amanti in Pompeii, archaeologists uncovered the House of Phaedra, a small but richly decorated home. Despite lacking an atrium, which symbolized wealth in Roman architecture, the house boasts intricate frescoes depicting mythological themes.
One prominent mural portrays Phaedra’s tragic love for Hippolytus, while others depict Venus and Adonis, and a nymph embracing a satyr.A painted domestic altar, adorned with bird, snake, and floral motifs, was found at the entrance, complete with a ceremonial incense burner and lamp.
The house appears to have been undergoing renovations when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 C.E., preserving it in remarkable detail beneath volcanic ash.This discovery emphasizes that even smaller households in Pompeii exhibited luxury and refined taste, challenging traditional assumptions that only large estates were lavishly decorated.
According to Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, such finds demonstrate the value of preserving history through what he calls “circular archaeology,” balancing research, conservation, and public access.Visitors can explore parts of the Insula dei Casti Amanti via raised walkways, offering a glimpse into life in ancient Pompeii.
The house is a testament to how even modest homes showcased artistic wealth, reflecting the diverse lifestyles of the city’s residents.
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