MILAN (AP) — Recent findings at the Pompeii archaeological site have uncovered new evidence suggesting that powerful earthquakes played a significant role in the demise of the ancient city, in addition to the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in the first century. Experts revealed on Tuesday that the discovery of two skeletons buried beneath a collapsed wall supports this theory, offering further insight into the tragic events that unfolded.

The two skeletons, believed to be adult males aged at least 55 years old, were unearthed in the Casti Amanti, also known as the House of Chaste Lovers. They were found beneath a collapsed wall that had fallen prior to the volcanic material engulfing the area. This discovery indicates that the region was likely undergoing reconstruction work following a previous earthquake, which struck just days before the catastrophic eruption in A.D. 79.

Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, stated, "In recent years, we have come to realize that there were violent and powerful seismic events occurring during the eruption. Through new archaeological techniques and methodologies, we can now gain a better understanding of the inferno that completely decimated the city of Pompeii in just two days, claiming countless lives. We are able to delve into the dynamics of these deaths, even down to their final moments."

Over the past 250 years, more than 1,300 victims have been discovered in the archaeological site situated south of Naples. These recent findings mark an important milestone in our ongoing quest to unravel the mysteries surrounding the tragic fate of Pompeii. Stay tuned for further updates as researchers continue to delve deeper into this captivating chapter of history.