Archaeologists discover a full ceremonial chariot among the remains near Pompeii.

The discovery of a complete ceremonial chariot at the Pompeii archaeological site in Italy has been revealed by officials. It is one of numerous significant discoveries uncovered outside the park near Naples.

Archaeologists believe the wagon was used for celebrations and parades, as well as maybe transporting brides to their new homes.

While chariots for daily living or agricultural product transport have previously been discovered at Pompeii, officials claim this is the first ceremonial chariot uncovered in its entirety.

The chariot, complete with iron pieces, bronze ornaments, and mineralised wooden remains, was discovered among the ruins of a village beyond the ancient city’s walls, parked in the portico of a stable where the bones of three horses had previously been uncovered.

The Archaeological Site of Pompeii dubbed the chariot “an outstanding discovery” and added “it represents a unique find – which has no analogue in Italy thus far – in a remarkable condition of preservation”.

Pompeii was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius’ explosion in 79 AD. According to park officials, the chariot was saved when the walls and roof of the structure it was in fell, and it also survived looting by modern-day antiquities thieves who dug tunnels through to the site, grazing but not harming the four-wheeled carriage.

The chariot was discovered on the grounds of Civita Giuliana, one of the most important ancient villas in the area around Vesuvius on the northern boundaries of the ancient Roman city with a panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Last year, archaeologists found the skeletal remains of what are believed to have been a wealthy man and his male slave attempting to escape death.

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