Archaeologists found a thermopolium in Pompeii, an ancient fast food restaurant

Rome – Archaeologists have found an exceptionally well-preserved thermopolium in Pompeii, where work has not ceased even during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is a kind of ancient fast food. The discovery of this popular eatery was reported by the management of the archaeological site. The remnants of found dishes even provide insights into gastronomic habits in the year 79 AD, when this ancient port near Naples was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

The counter of the ancient "buffet," preserved in a layer of ash, was partially uncovered as early as 2019. However, researchers soon halted work to prevent the thermopolium from being damaged at the busy location within the archaeological park.

In addition to the already known fresco of a sea nymph on a horse, scientists have newly revealed depictions of various animals, especially poultry and wild ducks, which were likely consumed with wine or hot drinks. In terracotta vessels, archaeologists found a fragment of a duck bone as well as remnants of pork, goat, fish, and snail meat. Several ingredients were cooked together similar to Spanish paella.

At the bottom of a large jug, crushed bean pods were found, which were used to adjust the taste of the wine. An interesting discovery is a homophobic inscription on the edge of one of the frescoes, which depicts a dog on a leash. The love for the same sex is attributed to a man with the Greek name Nicia. Massimo Osanna, the director of the archaeological park, believes that someone likely made a joke about the owner of the establishment.

Thermopolium consists of the Greek terms "thermos," meaning hot, and "poleo," which means to sell. In the Roman world, these cookshops were popular among ordinary people, with around eighty of them in Pompeii alone, reported the AFP agency. "Besides providing testimony about everyday life in Pompeii, the possibilities to analyze this place are exceptional. This is the first time such an establishment has been discovered in its entirety," noted Osanna.