Pompeii Discovery: The Oldest Known Olive Oil Preserved in Ancient Bottle

In a remarkable find that bridges the gap between ancient Rome and modern archaeology, researchers have uncovered a nearly 2,000-year-old bottle containing solidified olive oil, perfectly preserved since the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This rare artifact, found among the ruins of Pompeii, offers a stunning glimpse into Roman daily life and the advanced preservation methods used by the ancient civilization.

The bottle, which was discovered alongside a carbonized loaf of bread, provides an extraordinary snapshot of Roman culinary practices and trade. The olive oil, which had solidified over the centuries due to its exposure to the air, was likely used for cooking, lighting, or religious rituals. It remains one of the best-preserved examples of ancient olive oil and a testament to the cultural importance of olive oil in Roman society.

“This discovery offers invaluable insight into the practical and symbolic roles that olive oil played in Roman life,” says Dr. Claudia Romano, an archaeologist specializing in Roman history. “Not only was olive oil a staple in their diet, but it was also used for everything from medicinal purposes to lighting lamps. To find it preserved in this way is a true marvel.”

The bottle, made of clay, bears the signature of a Roman artisan and provides direct evidence of the extensive trade networks that existed within the empire. The discovery of carbonized bread beside the bottle also highlights the interconnected nature of Roman food production and consumption, showing how everyday items were both ordinary and essential to the empire’s vast economic system.

This incredible find underscores the profound impact of Pompeii’s preservation by the volcanic ash from Vesuvius, which has allowed researchers to uncover a wide range of objects from daily life. From furniture and frescoes to foodstuffs like this olive oil, the eruption froze the city in time, offering modern-day scholars an unparalleled opportunity to study ancient Roman culture.

As research continues, this bottle of solidified olive oil from 79 AD stands as a fascinating reminder of the enduring legacy of Roman craftsmanship and their reliance on one of the Mediterranean’s most important agricultural products.