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

Tony | Archeaology

December 2, 2024

Archaeologists in Giugliano, Italy, have uncovered the remarkable Tomb of Cerberus, a 2,000-year-old Roman burial site featuring a fresco of the mythical three-headed dog guarding the underworld. Inside, they discovered a perfectly preserved mummy wrapped in a shroud, surrounded by ancient Roman burial objects, including ointment bottles and cleansing tools. The mummy’s preservation is attributed to herbal creams like Chenopodium and absinthe, applied during burial rituals. This unprecedented find is reshaping our understanding of Roman funerary practices and embalming techniques. DNA analysis and studies of organic materials, such as pollen, aim to reveal more about the social and cultural context of ancient Naples. Could the Tomb of Cerberus provide groundbreaking insights into Roman traditions and their beliefs about the afterlife? The investigation is only just beginning.

Photo Credit: Superintendent of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape / Press Release

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

Aerial view of the archaeological site of the Tomb of Cerberus

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 and archaeologists standing together outside

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.”

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Review: Top 10 Healthcare Services in the USA

The U.S. healthcare industry is a complex ecosystem of providers, insurers, and technology-driven services, delivering critical care to millions. In 2025, the sector is shaped by rising costs (projected at $4.9 trillion in 2023), technological innovation, and a focus on patient-centric care. Below is a detailed review of the top 10 healthcare services in the USA, based on market presence, patient outcomes, and industry impact.

1. HCA Healthcare

HCA Healthcare, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is the largest health system, operating 220 hospitals and over 40,000 staffed beds across 20 states. Known for comprehensive services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty treatments, it generates significant net patient revenue. Its scale and advanced technology adoption ensure high-quality care, though accessibility varies by region.

2. Universal Health Services (UHS)

UHS manages 183 hospitals across 40 states, with over 21,000 beds, focusing on acute care and behavioral health. Its facilities in Texas, Florida, and California provide diverse services, from trauma care to psychiatric treatment. UHS’s emphasis on mental health integration aligns with 2025 trends, though high costs can be a barrier.

3. Encompass Health Corporation

With 164 hospitals, Encompass is the largest operator of rehabilitation hospitals, offering specialized post-acute care for stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury patients. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, it operates in 37 states, delivering measurable outcomes through therapy-focused programs. Its niche focus limits broader service scope.

4. CommonSpirit Health

A Catholic-affiliated system with 142 hospitals, CommonSpirit provides acute care, outpatient services, and telehealth across 21 states. It excels in community health programs and equitable access, serving underserved populations. Its integration of AI for diagnostics enhances efficiency, but merger-related challenges can affect consistency.

5. Ascension Health

Ascension operates 139 hospitals, focusing on primary care, oncology, and cardiology. With a mission-driven approach, it serves low-income communities through charity care programs. Its adoption of value-based care (VBC) models, projected to cover 90 million lives by 2027, improves outcomes but faces staffing shortages.

6. Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is a leading integrated healthcare provider, combining insurance and care delivery for 12.5 million members. Its ACA marketplace plans are top-rated for affordability and quality, with low deductibles and strong preventive care. Operating in eight states, its HMO model ensures coordinated care but limits patient choice.

7. Aetna (CVS Health)

Aetna, under CVS Health, provides health insurance and healthcare services, covering 39 million lives. Its ACA plans offer competitive premiums and broad networks, with telehealth and pharmacy integration via CVS. Aetna’s focus on chronic disease management and AI-driven care navigation boosts outcomes, though rural access is limited.

8. Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic, based in Rochester, Minnesota, is renowned for specialized care in oncology, cardiology, and neurology. With 70,000 staff and three major campuses, it serves 1.3 million patients annually. Its research-driven approach and high patient satisfaction earn it top rankings, but costs and geographic reach are drawbacks.

9. Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic, with 23 hospitals, is a leader in cardiac care and medical innovation, serving patients across Ohio, Florida, and Nevada. Its adoption of cloud computing and AI for diagnostics enhances precision medicine. High costs and limited national presence restrict accessibility for some.

10. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

BCBS, a federation of 34 independent companies, insures 115 million Americans, offering PPO, HMO, and EPO plans. Its ACA marketplace plans are widely available, with strong provider networks and wellness programs. BCBS’s focus on digital health tools and equitable access is notable, though premiums vary by state.

Choosing the Right Service

Selecting a healthcare service depends on location, medical needs, and budget. HCA and UHS offer broad hospital-based care, while Kaiser and Aetna excel in integrated insurance and delivery. Mayo and Cleveland Clinic are ideal for specialized treatments, and BCBS provides flexible insurance options. Compare costs (e.g., average ACA premium: $635/month), provider networks, and patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or U.S. News. With 26 million uninsured Americans and rising costs, prioritize services with telehealth, preventive care, and VBC to maximize value.