Archaeologists have long debated the cause of death of the victims of the Mount Vesuvius eruption in 79 CE. While most believed that the victims died from asphyxiation due to the thick clouds of gas and ash, a new study published in Frontiers in Earth Science suggests that some may have died due to collapsing walls caused by seismic tremors.
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius released an immense amount of thermal energy, causing devastation to the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Previous studies have indicated that extreme heat may have been a significant factor in the deaths of the inhabitants, with some evidence of bones fracturing and skulls bursting from the heat.
The recent discovery of two skeletons in Pompeii, showing signs of severe fractures and trauma injuries, suggests that these individuals may have died when their shelter collapsed around them during the eruption. This finding adds a new layer to the debate surrounding the cause of death of the victims.
Researchers have also pointed to historical evidence of seismic activity in the region in the decades leading up to the eruption. An earthquake in 62-63 CE caused extensive damage to buildings in Pompeii, with repairs still ongoing 17 years later. This suggests that the cumulative effects of earthquakes and aftershocks may have played a role in the deaths of some residents.
Overall, the study highlights the complexity of the events surrounding the Mount Vesuvius eruption and the various factors that may have contributed to the deaths of the victims. Further research and analysis will be needed to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event in history.
