Unearthed in 2019, a fast food joint in Pompei archaeological park is now open to the public. With frescoes displaying its wares, the snack bar was frozen in time when Vesuvius erupted.
An ancient thermopolium, or fast food eatery, unearthed in Pompeii in 2019 will open to the public this week. The building was covered in ash and frozen in time when Vesuvius erupted in 79AD.
Fast food for the poorer citizens
The snack bar was used by poor residents of the Roman city. In the bar with its earthenware pots for different foods, archaeologists discovered the remnants of duck bones, pigs, goats, fish and snails.
The remnants lead researchers to believe on of the dishes on the menu was a form of paella.
The thermopolium was discovered in Regio V, a 21.8-hectare (54-acre) site to the north of Pompei’s archaeological park. Archaeologists also discovered a floor made from polychrome marble.
There are dozens of other thermopolia throughout the archaeological park. Mainly poorer residents used the snack bars as kitchens in homes were a rarity for the lower classes. Typical menus included coarse bread with salty fish, baked cheese, lentils and spicy wine.
“I am delighted to see the Thermopolium open to the public, following the timely completion of restoration work on the building discovered during the new excavations of Regio V” declared Massimo Osanna, Director General of Museums.
Two other sites in Regio V
As well as the fast food joint, visitors will be able to get a glimpse of two mansions – Casa di Orione and Casa del Giardino. These were also found in Regio V and are being restored.
Regio V has been the most intensive dig at Pompei since the 1960s. It is not yet fully open to the public.
In August 2019, archaeologists discovered a “sorcerer’s treasure trove” with relics including crystals, buttons made of bones, glass beads and mirrors.
