Archaeologists in Naples have unsealed a 2,000-year-old sarcophagus from the Tomb of Cerberus in Giugliano, revealing a remarkably well-preserved mummy. The discovery, made by a team led by Simona Formola, shows the body lying face-up and covered in a shroud, surrounded by burial goods including ointment jars and cleaning tools.

The exceptional preservation has stunned researchers, who believe the careful burial suggests the individual was a family member for whom the mausoleum was originally built. Analysis of the tomb's contents, including mineralized fabric and organic substances, is providing new insights into ancient funerary practices. The team has already identified preservation treatments using goosefoot and absinthe.

Ongoing DNA analysis and laboratory testing of samples from the burial chamber continue to yield data about ancient life in the Naples region. The findings are expanding knowledge of the Phlegraean territory near Liternum and offering opportunities for multidisciplinary research into the social and cultural makeup of Naples 2,000 years ago.