Sheep and archaeologists seem to work well together, having their own area of ​​responsibility in ancient Pompeii.

Herd of sheep helps archaeologists through grazing to preserve the ruins of an ancient Roman city that was buried under tons of volcanic ash after the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Since excavation began at the site 250 years ago, scientists have discovered two-thirds of the 660-acre site.

Preservation of unexplored sectors of the ancient city, against time and weather conditions causing, among other things, soil erosion, are of paramount importance to those who manage archaeological sites.

“It’s a problem if grass and other plants grow inside or on ancient walls and houses. Therefore, we try to take a sustainable approach to the entire environment in order to avoid the use of substances,” says Gabriel Zuchtrigel, director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park.

A herd of 150 sheep was recruited from Area V, the northern sector of the ancient city, where grassy hills are scattered among the ruins of ancient houses and shops.

As Zuchtrigel notes, the sheep initiative does not contribute to reducing carbon emissions, but it certainly does. saving money and keeping the landscape clean.

“It’s also what really gives an idea of ​​what Pompeii was like when it was rediscovered. There were forests, vineyards, sheep, all this countryside, and in the middle was Pompeii,” he explains.

Source: CNN