A 2,000-Year-Old Tomb: An Unprecedented Discovery

Photo credit: Superintendence of Archeology, Fine Arts and Landscape / Press release

In a groundbreaking archaeological discovery at Giugliano in Campania, northwest of Naples, Italy, researchers have uncovered an extraordinary find that offers insight into ancient Roman funerary practices. The Tomb of Cerberus, dating back 2,000 years, was itself a notable discovery when it was unearthed in 2023, but its contents have captivated archaeologists even more.

Discovering the Tomb of Cerberus

Entrance to the Tomb of Cerberus. (Photo credit: Superintendence of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape / Press Release)

In 2023, a team of archaeologists working with the Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape discovered the boundary of a long-lost necropolis in Giugliano. Initial investigations revealed what appeared to be the entrance to a chamber tomb.

The site featured an elaborate fresco depicting Cerberus, the mythical three-headed dog of the underworld from Greek mythology.

Looking towards the newly discovered burial site

They discover a fresco next to the Tomb of Cerberus. (Photo credit: Superintendence of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape / Press Release)

With great precision, the team removed the tiles covering the roof overlooking the Tomb of Cerberus, as it has since been known, revealing a small opening. Then, they inserted a microcamera into that small gap, allowing researchers to look inside and make an “unprecedented” discovery.

Encouraged by what they observed, the archaeologists decided to open the sealed tomb for the first time.

An incredibly preserved mummy inside the Tomb of Cerberus

Objects found in the Tomb of Cerberus. (Photo credit: Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape / Press Release)

Led by Simona Formola, the archaeological team was surprised by the state of conservation of the contents of the Tomb of Cerberus.

Inside they found an ancient mummy lying face up, wrapped in a shroud and surrounded by a series of objects, including several bottles of ointments and body cleansing utensils commonly used in Roman funerary rites. The body itself was remarkably well preserved, thanks in part to herbal creams, including those made with Chenopodium (“goosefoot”) and absinthe, probably applied before the tomb was sealed.

A significant discovery

Archaeological site of the Tomb of Cerberus. (Photo credit: Superintendence of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape / Press Release)

Mariano Nuzzo, superintendent of the Italian Ministry of Culture, highlighted the importance of this discovery. In an official statement, he stated: “The Tomb of Cerberus continues to provide valuable information about the Phlegrean territory near Liternum, expanding knowledge of the past and offering opportunities for multidisciplinary research.”

The revelations of the Tomb of Cerberus go beyond its physical content. Analysis of the fabric is being carried out to determine the structure, type and quality of the shroud thread. Climatic conditions have likely caused mineralization of the fabric, presenting new challenges and opportunities for research.

DNA analysis and studies of organic substances, including pollen, are also being carried out to provide more insight into the funerary practices and social and cultural context of ancient Naples.

The investigation will continue

Officials at the Tomb of Cerberus. (Photo credit: Superintendence of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape / Press Release)

It is hoped that meticulous sampling and analysis of the contents of the Tomb of Cerberus will yield detailed evidence about Roman embalming techniques and the wider necropolis of which the burial site is part.

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“Laboratory analyzes carried out on samples taken from burials and deposition beds have yielded a considerable amount of data on the treatment of the body of the deceased and the funerary rituals carried out,” revealed Mariano Nuzzo, adding that the findings are “considerably enriching the panorama of our knowledge.”