Recent investigations at the Tomb of Cerberus in Giugliano have revealed a new surprise: a remarkably well-preserved burial, complete with a shroud-covered corpse and ancient ointment containers, shedding light on ancient funerary rituals.
On July 18, the Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape for the metropolitan area of Naples announced the discovery of a well-preserved corpse within the Tomb of Cerberus in Giugliano.
The body, covered with a shroud and surrounded by containers of ointment and perfume, offers a glimpse into ancient burial practices.
The tomb had been sealed for over 2,000 years until it was accessed using a micro camera, which allowed researchers to peer inside without disturbing the site.
Coordinated by archaeologist Dr. Simona Formola, the excavation revealed a supine body covered by a shroud, likely mineralized due to the unique conditions within the burial chamber.
Surrounding the body were several unguentaria (small containers for oils and perfumes) and strigils (scraping tools used in ancient bathing rituals).
The careful burial and the items found suggest the deceased might have been an important family member for whom the mausoleum was built.
“The Tomb of Cerberus gives us valuable information about the Phlegraean area near Liternum, expanding our knowledge and offering opportunities for more research,” said Superintendent Mariano Nuzzo.
A team of researchers analyzed samples from previous burials in the mausoleum. They found traces of perennial herbs like goosefoot (Chenopodium) and wormwood, likely used as creams to preserve the bodies.
Ongoing DNA analysis aims to learn more about the people buried there.
“Recent lab analyses of the burials have given us a lot of data on how the bodies were treated and the rituals performed, greatly enriching our understanding,” said the research team.
More data from the tomb and nearby necropolis are expected as research continues. These findings will help us understand the history and social life of this ancient community.
