Pompeii archaeologists use AI to reconstruct face of man who died during volcano eruption

Archaeologists and researchers have used artificial intelligence for the first time to digitally reconstruct the face of a man killed in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius that engulfed the ancient Roman city of Pompeii in 79AD.

The image represents a man whose remains were discovered along with those of another person as they attempted to flee the city towards the coast during the volcanic eruption.

The AI-generated illustration shows the man running along a debris-covered road holding a large bowl over his head as a makeshift shield, as Mount Vesuvius erupts in the background.

Researchers believe the man died during a heavy fall of volcanic debris early in the disaster.

The reconstruction, developed by the Pompeii Archaeological Park in collaboration with the University of Padua, was based on archaeological survey data from excavations near the Porta Stabia necropolis, which sits just outside the walls of the ancient city.

Archaeologists found the man holding a terracotta mortar, which they interpreted as an improved attempt to shield his head from falling small volcanic stones, which rained down during the eruption.

Ancient accounts, including those of Roman writer Pliny the Younger, describe the city's residents using objects to protect themselves as ash and debris fell on the city.

The man was also carrying an oil lamp, a small iron ring and 10 bronze coins.

The digital portrait was created using AI and photo-editing techniques designed to translate skeletal and archaeological data into a realistic human likeness, the Pompeii Archaeological Park said.

"The vastness of archaeological data is now such that only with the help of artificial intelligence will we be able to adequately protect and enhance them," park director Gabriel Zuchtriegel said in a statement.

"If used well, AI can contribute to a renewal of classical studies."

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Researchers said the project aims to make archaeological research more accessible and emotionally engaging for the public while maintaining a scientific foundation.

However, some people online were less than convinced by the AI image.

"Of course, AI can be important in archaeological studies. But here it just drew a picture," one wrote.

Another said: "I so fail to see what the AI told us. It just drew a picture!"

Pompeii was buried under ash and pumice when Vesuvius erupted, preserving the city and the remains of thousands of its inhabitants for nearly 2,000 years. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

(c) Sky News 2026: Pompeii archaeologists use AI to reconstruct face of man who died during volcano eruption