Newly Excavated Blue Room Reveals Ancient Roman Sanctuary in Pompeii
ICARO Media Group
Experts believe that this ornate room, adorned with depictions of female figures and painted in a vivid cerulean hue, served as a sacrarium, or a Roman sanctuary.
Measuring nearly 90 square feet, the blue room was initially discovered during the Bourbon period (1813-1840). However, it has only been recently excavated and officially unveiled to the public on May 27. The room's murals, which include representations of the four seasons or "Horea," as well as agricultural emblems such as a plow and a "pedum," offer insight into ancient Roman customs and practices.
The room's unique pigment has caught the attention of experts, who remark that the color blue is rarely seen in Pompeian frescoes and was typically reserved for elaborately decorated spaces. This discovery further emphasizes the significance and grandeur of the blue room as a Roman sanctuary dedicated to ritual activities and the storage of sacred objects.
Archaeologists found various objects within the room, including 15 transport amphorae, large vases used for transportation, and a set of bronze items comprising two jugs and two lamps. Additionally, piles of building materials, ready to be used for renovation work, were unearthed, highlighting the ongoing efforts to safeguard and preserve the vast heritage of Pompeii.
As part of this preservation mission, the excavation of the blue room is part of a larger project aimed at safeguarding Pompeii's heritage, which encompasses a staggering 13,000 rooms within 1070 residential units, as well as public and sacred areas.
This recent discovery in Pompeii follows a significant find in 2018, where a large villa outside the city walls revealed buildings adorned with Pompeian red colors and decorative motifs depicting flowers and animals. Named the "Vicolo dei Balconi" or "Alley of Balconies," this finding expands the known archaeological area of Pompeii.
The ongoing excavations and discoveries in Pompeii continue to provide invaluable insights into the daily lives and cultural practices of the ancient Roman civilization, further cementing the importance of preserving this renowned archaeological site for future generations.