Early excavations were often more focused on finding artistic treasures and ancient artifacts, rather than preserving the site as an archaeological monument. However, as work progressed, archaeologists began to uncover not just the city's buildings, but also the remnants of its people. The preservation of Pompeii in volcanic ash allowed for the detailed preservation of everyday life in the Roman Empire.

The excavation of Pompeii has led to the discovery of a vast range of artifacts, structures, and artworks that have illuminated many aspects of ancient Roman life.

1. Buildings and Streets: One of the most striking features of Pompeii is the remarkably well-preserved urban layout. Streets are lined with shops, homes, temples, baths, and theaters. The city's grid-like street plan, with its paved roads and public buildings, provides a snapshot of Roman urban planning and engineering.

2. Frescos and Mosaics: Pompeii is home to a wealth of artistic works, including wall frescoes and floor mosaics that depict scenes from mythology, daily life, and nature. These artworks offer valuable insight into Roman aesthetics and the social and cultural values of the time.

3. Human Remains: Perhaps the most poignant discoveries in Pompeii are the casts of the victims of the eruption. As the hot ash and pyroclastic flows poured over the city, they caused the bodies of the inhabitants to decompose, leaving voids in the hardened ash. Archaeologists later filled these voids with plaster, creating life-like casts of the people who perished, capturing their final moments. These casts have become some of the most famous images of Pompeii and serve as a powerful reminder of the city's tragic fate.

4. Everyday Objects: Archaeologists have uncovered numerous everyday items such as pottery, tools, clothing, food remnants, and even graffiti. These objects provide an extraordinary window into the daily lives of Pompeii’s citizens. The discovery of bread loaves still bearing the imprint of their molds, as well as jars of preserved food, gives us a tangible connection to the past. shutdown123