During the infamous eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, the destruction of Pompeii was not only due to volcanic materials but also intense earthquakes. Recent excavations in the Insula dei Casti Amanti area of Pompeii reveal that seismic activity played a significant role in the collapse of buildings and the deaths of many inhabitants.

The research team examined the site and found evidence of sudden building collapses that overwhelmed two individuals. By analyzing the construction techniques, volcanic deposits, and patterns of bone fractures, it became clear that earthquakes triggered by the volcanic eruption contributed significantly to the destruction.

Traditionally, it was believed that the accumulation of volcanic materials like pumice and the pressure from pyroclastic flows were the primary causes of damage. However, this new evidence highlights the devastating impact of seismic activity during the eruption. Ancient writer Pliny the Younger had described these earthquakes, and the findings now provide physical evidence to support his accounts. The earthquakes likely caused walls to collapse, adding to the chaos and fatalities.

This discovery sheds light on the combined effects of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes in historical catastrophes. Many structures in Pompeii were weakened by the seismic activity, leading to more significant damage when the pyroclastic flows arrived. This updated view emphasizes the need to consider both volcanic and seismic hazards when studying ancient disasters and their impacts on human settlements.

The findings open new avenues for research in volcanology, archaeology, and paleopathology, enhancing our understanding of ancient disasters and how they shaped historical events. It also underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in uncovering the full story of Pompeii's tragic end.