Uncovering the 2,000-Year-Old Scent of Pompeii

Scientists have uncovered significant findings about the scent of homes in Pompeii, which was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius around 2,000 years ago. Through chemical analysis of ancient incense containers, researchers found evidence of woody and earthy scents, as well as citrus-like aromas.The study examined two terracotta incense containers found in Pompeii and nearby Boscoreale. One container was discovered in a building that was being converted into an inn at the time of the eruption in 79 AD.The other container was found in a rural villa's house temple, alongside other religious objects. The shape, decoration, and context of the containers suggest they were used for burning scented materials during domestic rituals.Researchers analyzed small samples from the containers using three different methods, examining microscopic mineral residues from burned plants, phytoliths, and molecular signatures of ancient resin, oil, and other organic compounds.