By using artificial intelligence archaeologists manage for the first time to reconstruct the face of a victim of the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. which reduced Pompeii to ashes.
Archaeologists conducting research in the ancient city, created the digital portrait of an old man. The man was among two victims who were discovered trying to flee the city to the coast of what is now Italy during the volcanic eruption. Investigators believe the man died in the disaster during the ash spew, according to CBSNews.
The digital reconstruction of his face was developed by the Archaeological Park of Pompeii in collaboration with the University of Padua and is based on archaeological data from excavations near the Porta Stabia necropolis, just outside the walls of the ancient city.
Archaeologists found the victim holding a clay mortar, which they interpret as a makeshift attempt to protect his head from falling ‘lapilli’, small volcanic stones that fell during the eruption.
Ancient accounts, including those by the Roman writer Pliny the Younger, describe residents using objects to protect themselves as the city was covered in ash and debris.
“Light” in his last moments the objects he was holding
The man also carried an oil lamp, a small iron ring and 10 copper coins, personal items that offer insight into his final moments as well as his daily life in Pompeii before the disaster.
According to the archaeologists, the victim, along with many others, was discovered near the city gates. “Many may have died outside the city, trying to reach the coast,” they say.
The digital portrait was created using artificial intelligence and photo-processing techniques designed to “translate” skeletal and archaeological data into a realistic human likeness.
“The immensity of archaeological data is now such that only with the help of artificial intelligence will we be able to protect and improve it. If used correctly, artificial intelligence can contribute to the renewal of classical studies,” Pompeii park director Gabriel Zuchtrigel said in a statement.
The project aims to make archaeological research more accessible and attractive to the public while maintaining a scientific basis, the researchers said.
“Pompeii is perhaps the most famous place in the world for archaeological research, where each new discovery illuminates the plot of ancient life with excitement,” said Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli. “Research conducted with these excavations shows that innovation, when used with care, can give us new historical perspectives.”
