A Different Kind of Cast: DNA Reveals Pompeii’s True Story

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD buried the Roman city of Pompeii under a thick layer of volcanic ash, preserving the tragic moment in time. For centuries, the plaster casts of the victims have been the primary source of information about the city’s final days. However, recent DNA analysis has challenged long-held assumptions about the identities and relationships of these individuals.

A team of researchers led by David Reich and Alissa Mittnik from Harvard University analyzed the ancient DNA extracted from the body casts. This genetic analysis revealed surprising discrepancies between the traditional interpretations and the actual biological relationships. For instance, a pair believed to be a mother and child were found to be unrelated individuals, and a pair thought to be sisters or mother and daughter were discovered to include at least one male.

The DNA analysis also shed light on the diverse origins of Pompeii’s inhabitants. The city was a melting pot of cultures, with people from various parts of the Mediterranean settling there. The genetic data revealed a diverse population with a strong influence from the eastern Mediterranean.

By challenging traditional interpretations and revealing the true identities and relationships of Pompeii’s victims, this groundbreaking research offers a new perspective on the city’s past. It demonstrates the power of genetic analysis to uncover hidden truths and reshape our understanding of ancient civilizations.

Image—Visit Pompeii Vesuvius