The depiction of a Dionysiac mystery cult now serves as an “exceptional historical document,” allowing us a glimpse into one curious aspect of the ancient city.

Archaeologists in Pompeii have uncovered a series of nearly life-size frescoes spanning three walls of an ancient banquet hall. Set against a ruby-red backdrop, the wall paintings depict female followers of Dionysus—the Greek god of wine and ecstasy—engaged in secretive cult rituals.

Uncovered in what was once a spacious banqueting hall that opened onto a garden, the frieze dates back to the 1st century BC, meaning it was nearly 100 years old when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, burying Pompeii in pumice and killing more than 2,000 inhabitants.

After nearly 2,000 years of being covered by volcanic ash, this beautiful fresco gets to see the light of day. It was unveiled at Pompeii recently and depicts the life of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine,

The new Pompeian frescoes are captivated by their detail and depth, depicting mysterious practices of the cult of Dionysus on a monumental scale. Researchers consider this one of the most significant discoveries in recent years,

The new Pompeian frescoes captivate with their detail and depth. They depict mysterious practices of the cult of Dionysus on a monumental scale. Researchers believe this is one of the most important discoveries of recent years,