The casts of Pompeii switched to CAT scan.

The restoration of the moldings corresponding to the locations of charred bodies of the inhabitants of Pompeii after the eruption of Vesuvius in the year 79, was this year the subject of further investigations by CAT scan.

The technique of plaster molding, developed during excavations carried out between 1863 and 1875 by the archaeologist Giuseppe Fiorelli, has not only revealed  the appearance of humans and animals surprised by the eruption, including their facial expression and their clothes. The flesh did not resist, but some bones remained in place in the plaster matrix.

Analysis of teeth has allowed doctors, orthodontists and archaeologists to ascertain the state of health of the victims before they died, and the first conclusion is that " they are dead healthy !"

The first results of the study, still ongoing, helps to know that their diet was healthy, contained little sugar and lots of fruits and vegetables. They also allow to note that high levels of fluoride were in the air and water near the volcano.

According to Massimo Osanna, Archaeological Superintendent of Pompeii, " it will tell us a lot about the victims: their age, sex, what they ate, what illnesses they suffered and which social class they belonged. It will be a big step. our knowledge of antiquity ".

Pyroclastic flows from Vesuvius and perseverance have enabled archaeologists and still allow, thanks to increasingly sophisticated investigative techniques to advance the historical knowledge.

Sources :

- Avax News  - Peering Inside Pompeii's Victims

- The Local - Scans show Pompeii victims 'in good health' - link