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Riyadh Hosts GCC Society for History, Archaeology Forum

The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum launches in Riyadh - SPA
The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum launches in Riyadh - SPA
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Riyadh Hosts GCC Society for History, Archaeology Forum

The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum launches in Riyadh - SPA
The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum launches in Riyadh - SPA

The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum, organized by the Heritage Commission in cooperation with King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah) was launched in Riyadh. It will run for two days and involve 300 researchers in history and archaeology, SPA reported.
Darah CEO Turki Al-Shuwaier stressed in his opening speech that the forum is a vivid example of how interdisciplinary sciences can equip individuals to think critically, serve their communities, and contribute to human progress.
Heritage Commission CEO Dr. Jasir Al-Harbash commended the society's efforts in serving history and antiquities enthusiasts in the GCC region. He highlighted the successes of the Heritage Commission in Saudi Arabia, particularly the registration of the Cultural Landscape of Al-Faw Archaeological Area and At-Turaif District in Diriyah on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The forum aims to foster scientific advancement in the society's field of expertise and empower members to contribute to scientific research. It showcases the contributions of GCC citizens in archaeology, heritage, and history and facilitates cultural exchange to promote scientific production in these areas.

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Ancient Pompeii Excavation Uncovers Lavish Private Bath Complex

A recently discovered complex in the ancient city of Pompeii is seen, in Pompeii, Italy, in this undated handout picture released on January 17, 2025. (Pompeii Archeological Park/ Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism/ Handout via Reuters)
A recently discovered complex in the ancient city of Pompeii is seen, in Pompeii, Italy, in this undated handout picture released on January 17, 2025. (Pompeii Archeological Park/ Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism/ Handout via Reuters)
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Ancient Pompeii Excavation Uncovers Lavish Private Bath Complex

A recently discovered complex in the ancient city of Pompeii is seen, in Pompeii, Italy, in this undated handout picture released on January 17, 2025. (Pompeii Archeological Park/ Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism/ Handout via Reuters)
A recently discovered complex in the ancient city of Pompeii is seen, in Pompeii, Italy, in this undated handout picture released on January 17, 2025. (Pompeii Archeological Park/ Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism/ Handout via Reuters)

Archaeologists have unearthed a lavish private bath complex in Pompeii, highlighting the wealth and grandeur of the ancient Roman city before it was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, the site said on Friday.

The baths, featuring hot, warm and cold rooms, could host up to 30 guests, allowing them to relax before heading into an adjacent, black-walled banquet hall, decorated with scenes from Greek mythology.

The complex lies inside a grand residence that has been uncovered over the last two years during excavations that have revealed the opulent city's multifaceted social life before Vesuvius buried it under a thick, suffocating blanket of ash.

A central courtyard with a large basin adds to the splendor of the house, which is believed to have been owned by a member of Pompeii's elite in its final years.

"This discovery underscores how Roman houses were more than private residences, they were stages for public life and self-promotion," said Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park.

Zuchtriegel said the layout recalled scenes from the Roman novel "The Satyricon", where banquets and baths were central to displays of wealth and status.

Decorated with frescoes, the complex draws inspiration from Greek culture, emphasizing themes of leisure and erudition.

"The homeowner sought to create a spectacle, transforming their home into a Greek-style palace and gymnasium," Zuchtriegel said.

The remains of more than 1,000 victims have been found during excavations in Pompeii, including two bodies inside the private residence with the bathhouse - a woman, aged between 35-50, who was clutching jewellery and coins, and a younger man.

The discovery of their bodies was announced last year.