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The fresco was found in a ruined building during recent excavations. It shows a still life: a silver plate, a goblet with wine and many fruits such as dates and pomegranates. The painting also depicts moretum, a sauce loved by the ancient Romans and similar to today’s pesto.

Additionally, the dish depicts a pizza-like crust with filling. However, as stated in the press release by Italian experts, cannot be considered a pizza in the modern senseno doubt because it was not tomatoes that were brought to Europe only after the colonization of America.

Ancient fresco on the wall of a ruined house / Photo of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii

According to archaeologists, the still life in Pompeii belongs to the genre of painting “xenia”, a motif that represents the gifts of hospitality. Therefore, placing this mural in the courtyard of the house may reflect the host’s desire to treat guests well. About 300 still lifes of this type were found in Pompeii and nearby cities.

Excavations in Pompeii: video