POMPEII — Archaeologists and researchers at the ancient Roman site of Pompeii used artificial intelligence for the first time to digitally reconstruct the face of a man killed in the AD 79 eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The reconstruction was developed by the Pompeii Archaeological Park in collaboration with the University of Padua.

The digital portrait represents a man whose remains, along with those of another person, were discovered as they attempted to flee the city toward the coast of what is now Italy. According to researchers, the man died early in the disaster during a heavy fall of volcanic debris.

The reconstruction was based on archaeological survey data from excavations near the Porta Stabia necropolis, just outside the walls of the ancient city. The digital portrait was created using artificial intelligence and photo-editing techniques designed to translate skeletal and archaeological data into a realistic human likeness.

Archaeologists found the man holding a terracotta mortar, which they interpret as an improvised attempt to shield his head from falling small volcanic stones during the eruption. He was also carrying an oil lamp, a small iron ring and 10 bronze coins.

Pompeii was buried under ash and pumice during the AD 79 eruption of Mount Vesuvius nearly 2,000 years ago, preserving the city and the remains of thousands of its inhabitants. The project aims to make archaeological research accessible to the public while maintaining a scientific foundation, researchers 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. If used well, AI can contribute to a renewal of classical studies." Pompeii park director Gabriel Zuchtriegel said in a statement.