The tomb dates to the time of the Samnites, an Italic people living in south-central Italy who fought against the Romans. It was found by surprise during a dig led by a French archaeological team from the Jean Bèrard centre in Naples.
The team have already made several notable discoveries – including an exceptionally well preserved pottery workshop – but this latest could outdo them all.
“It is an exceptional find for Pompeii because it throws light on the pre-Roman city about which we know so very little,” said Massimo Osanna, the archaeological superintendent of Pompeii.
The tomb contains the remains of an adult woman, and has survived for more than two millennia without ever being disturbed or broken into.
Perfectly preserved: the tomb was undisturbed for over 2,000 years. Photo: Archeological site of Pompeii press office
Seemingly, the Romans knew of the tomb's presence and did not disturb the site or build on it before life in the city was wiped out – and frozen in time – in 79 AD.
The contents of the tomb will provide useful clues for scholars about the history of the site under the Samnites.
The woman was buried with a series of clay jars, or amphora, which come from other regions of Italy revealing the extent of trade between the Samnites at Pompeii and other groups living across the Italian peninsula.
The contents of the jars will be analyzed in the weeks to come – but are thought to contain cosmetics, wine and food.
“The burial objects will show us much about the role of women in Samnite society and can provide us with a useful social insight,” Osanna told reporters.
The area around the grave will now be excavated to find out if there are more tombs nearby. As Osanna explains “Tombs are not normally found alone.”
However, the existence of other tombs is uncertain. During the Second World War, the area of Pompeii in which the grave was found was heavily shelled.
“It's a miracle that this has survived,”Osanna told reporters, “but I'm sure Pompeii has more gifts to give.”