Feb 19 • 11:00 UTC 🇺🇸 USA Fox News

Hidden graffiti at tourist-heavy destination reveals 2,000-year-old love notes

Archaeologists in Pompeii have discovered 2,000-year-old love notes inscribed in graffiti on ancient walls, thanks to advanced research technologies.

In a remarkable archaeological discovery, experts in Pompeii have uncovered 2,000-year-old love notes hidden within graffiti at a popular tourist site. The inscriptions were initially identified during research campaigns conducted in 2022 and 2025 but were only recently reported by the Pompeii Archaeological Park. The wall inscriptions were situated in a corridor that connects the theater district to Via Stabiana, highlighting the rich historical narrative woven into the fabric of Pompeii.

Among the love notes found, one mentions a woman named Erato coupled with the word 'loves,' though the specifics regarding the relationship remain enigmatic. Another note reflects the personal sentiments of a lover in haste, instructing their partner, 'take care, my Sava, make sure you love me!' A further inscription details Methe, a slave from Atella, who expresses a heartfelt love for someone named Cresto, invoking blessings from the goddess Venus for everlasting harmony in their relationship. These inscriptions provide a unique glimpse into the daily lives and emotions of people who lived nearly two millennia ago.

The significance of these findings is manifold, as they not only enhance our understanding of personal relationships in Ancient Rome but also illustrate how modern archaeological practices can revive and illuminate the past. Such discoveries draw attention to the enduring human emotions that transcend time, reminding us of the common threads of love and connection that resonate across ages. The advanced technologies employed in uncovering these inscriptions mark a pivotal point in archaeological research, emphasizing the continued relevance and excitement surrounding excavations in Pompeii, a site rich in history and tourism.

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