The accidental natural preservative for artifacts from the town of Pompeii was volcanic ash.
The accidental natural preservative for artifacts from the town of Pompeii was volcanic ash. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D., it spewed a massive amount of ash and volcanic debris that quickly covered the city of Pompeii. This ash acted as a protective layer, sealing and preserving the artifacts and structures beneath it for nearly 2,000 years. The volcanic ash created a hermetic environment that prevented the artifacts from being exposed to oxygen, moisture, and other elements that would have caused decay and deterioration. In addition, the ash helped to shield the artifacts from sunlight and UV rays, further aiding in their preservation. It wasn't until the archaeologists began excavating the site in the 18th century that they discovered the remarkably well-preserved artifacts that provide valuable insights into the daily life of the ancient Roman city.
