The Destruction of Herculaneum: Vesuvius Claimed More Than One Victim

Buildings in Herculaneum still embedded in tufa. Note: No roofs are in situ The modern town of Ercolano is build directly over the ancient town. Photograph copyright of Natasha Sheldon.

Experts chart the story of how Vesuvius destroyed Herculaneum in its archaeological remains, showing how they differ from nearby Pompeii.

Human Remains in Pompeii: The Body Casts

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How were archaeologists able to retrieve such life-like casts of the bodies of Vesuvius’s victims? The key to the revival of Pompeii’s citizens is plaster, along with care and patience.