Mapping of Pompeii through Fiorelli’s Eyes

Historical Context and Early Efforts of the Mapping of Pompeii

The Bourbons and Their Influence

The return of the Bourbon monarchy to Naples after the Napoleonic Wars signaled a significant period for archaeological endeavors. The Bourbons were passionate about excavations, often staging them for the entertainment of dignitaries and royal visitors.

These events were more spectacle than scientific, with distinguished guests receiving artifacts as souvenirs.

Early Excavation Practices

Early excavation methods were enthusiastic but lacked organization. Initial mapping of Pompeii attempts were rudimentary, with drawings often inaccurate and imprecise. These efforts, while noble, did not provide a coherent understanding of Pompeii’s layout. As a result, many valuable insights were lost in the chaos of unstructured digs.

The Need for Systematic Mapping of Pompeii

Without accurate mapping of Pompeii, archaeologists struggled to analyze Pompeii comprehensively. This lack of precise cartography hindered a deeper understanding of the city’s urban fabric and its historical significance.

Fiorelli’s Early Career and Contributions

Fiorelli’s Background

Giuseppe Fiorelli was born in Naples on June 7, 1823, into an era of burgeoning interest in archaeology and ancient history. His academic prowess was evident early on, as he pursued classical studies and archaeology at the University of Naples.

Fiorelli’s career in archaeology began under the mentorship of notable scholars, where he quickly distinguished himself with his rigorous approach to excavation and documentation. Before his tenure in Pompeii, Fiorelli worked extensively on other projects, refining his methodologies and gaining a reputation for his methodical and scientific methods.

His appointment as the director of the Pompeii excavations in 1860 marked the beginning of a transformative period for the site, underpinned by his dedication to systematic and professional archaeological techniques.

Initial Roles and Motivations

Fiorelli’s involvement in the Seventh Congress of Italian Scientists in Naples marked a turning point. His exposure to innovative ideas and practices inspired him to challenge the status quo. Discontent with existing practices, Fiorelli aimed to make museum collections more accessible and better documented.

Early Contributions

Even in his early roles, Fiorelli’s focus was on meticulous documentation and accessibility. His keen attention to detail was evident in his work, where he emphasized accurate recording of discoveries and careful preservation of artifacts.

Fiorelli understood that thorough documentation was crucial not only for current research but also for future academic reference. He advocated for organized, accessible collections that encouraged public engagement and educational advancement.

This early commitment to meticulous methods set the foundation for his later revolutionary contributions at Pompeii, where his systematic approaches would significantly enhance the field of archaeology.

Development of Fiorelli’s Techniques on Mapping of Pompeii

Appointment as Inspector

In 1847, Fiorelli was appointed Inspector of the Royal Excavations at Pompeii. His initial observations revealed numerous flaws, including a lack of systematic methodology and widespread corruption. Fiorelli’s criticisms of the excavation director Carlo Bonucci and the administrative irregularities he identified led to significant tensions.

Introducing Systematic Mapping of Pompeii

Determined to bring order to the chaos, Fiorelli introduced a systematic approach to mapping of Pompeii. He divided the city into well-defined regions (regiones) and town-blocks (insulae), providing a clear framework for excavation and documentation. This innovative methodology was revolutionary, allowing for more accurate and efficient excavations.

Methodological Innovations

Fiorelli’s approach went beyond simple mapping of Pompeii. His systematization included detailed documentation and a focus on preserving excavation sites, setting new standards for archaeological practice.

The 1858 Map of Pompeii and Its Significance

Creation of the “Tabula Coloniae Veneriae Corneliae Pompeis”

One of Fiorelli’s most enduring contributions to the field of archaeology was the creation of the “Tabula Coloniae Veneriae Corneliae Pompeis,” a comprehensive mapping of Pompeii. This map of Pompeii was the culmination of Fiorelli’s systematic approach and his dedication to scientific accuracy.

Initiated in 1858, the map delineated Pompeii’s complex urban fabric with unprecedented precision, offering a detailed view of its streets, buildings, and public spaces. To ensure accuracy, Fiorelli employed a grid system that divided the city into nine regions, which were further subdivided into smaller blocks, each meticulously documented.

This structured methodology not only facilitated the ongoing excavations but also provided a clear and organized way to record findings.

The “Tabula” served as more than just a navigational aid; it was a transformative tool that enabled scholars to analyze the spatial relationships and architectural developments within Pompeii, granting insights into the social and economic dynamics of the ancient city.

Additionally, the map’s creation marked a pivotal moment in archaeological documentation, setting new standards for precision and methodological rigor.

By prioritizing accurate recording and preservation over the haphazard collection of artifacts, Fiorelli’s “Tabula Coloniae Veneriae Corneliae Pompeis” became an invaluable resource for both contemporaneous researchers and future generations, solidifying Fiorelli’s legacy in the annals of archaeological history.

Importance for Future Work

The significance of this mapping of Pompeii cannot be overstated. It became the foundational tool for all subsequent topographical studies of Pompeii, enabling archaeologists to pinpoint specific locations with precision and conduct more targeted excavations.

Enhanced Accuracy and Efficiency

Fiorelli’s mapping of Pompeii allowed for more structured and efficient excavation processes. The detailed division of the city into regions and blocks ensured that discoveries could be accurately documented and preserved.

Methodological Innovations and Challenges

Embracing New Technologies

Under Fiorelli’s direction, the introduction of innovative technologies significantly changed the landscape of archaeological methods. He leveraged advancements such as the use of plaster casts to preserve voids left by decomposed bodies, capturing the final moments of the inhabitants of Pompeii with remarkable detail.

This technique not only provided poignant insights into the human aspect of the ancient tragedy but also became a methodological standard in archaeological preservation.

Overcoming Obstacles

Despite his groundbreaking contributions, Fiorelli faced numerous challenges. Persistent bureaucratic hurdles and financial constraints frequently threatened to derail his efforts. The entrenched resistance to change among some colleagues and administrators also posed significant difficulties.

Fiorelli’s perseverance in advocating for systematic and scientific approaches often led to professional conflicts but ultimately resulted in the widespread adoption of his methodologies.

Impact on Archaeological Practices

Fiorelli’s commitment to methodical documentation and preservation methods had a profound and lasting impact on the field of archaeology. By establishing meticulous standards for excavation and recording, he inspired a new generation of archaeologists to value accuracy and thoroughness.

His insistence on preserving the integrity of archaeological sites has become a foundational principle in contemporary archaeological practice, ensuring that discoveries are not only made but also maintained for future study and public education.

Naming Conventions and Their Impact

Cautious Approach to Naming

Fiorelli adopted a cautious approach to naming houses and sites within Pompeii, avoiding arbitrary designations that had plagued earlier efforts. Instead, he insisted on using names only when the true identity of the owners or the original purpose of the buildings could be confirmed.

This method starkly contrasted with the alternative system, where houses were often named after supposed owners or contemporary figures or events.

Comparison with Previous Practices

Previously, naming conventions led to a confusing array of names for the same site.

For instance, the “House of the Faun” (VI.xii.2, 5, 7) had accumulated numerous names over time, including “House of Pan”, “House of Goethe”, “House of the Large Mosaic”, “House of the family of Purius Magius”, “House of Arbaces the Egyptian”, “House of the Battle of Alexander”, “House of M. Cassius”, and “House of the Lucretii Satrii”.

This inconsistency often arose as owners were re-identified or as the significance of the honorand changed over time. The “House of Goethe” was named in honor of the famous writer’s son, who was present at its excavation in 1830 but died of smallpox shortly after.

Similarly, the “House of Queen Caroline” (VIII.iii.14) was initially named in honor of Caroline Murat but later became the “House of Adone” with the return of the Bourbons, only to revert to its original name once more after they were deposed.

Value of Fiorelli’s System

Fiorelli’s systematic naming policy helped clarify and standardize archaeological references, making it easier for future researchers to navigate the historical landscape of Pompeii. His approach ensured that names were based on solid evidence rather than speculation, thereby providing greater clarity and consistency in archaeological documentation.

Fiorelli himself stated, “I have excluded any arbitrary naming, as many times as I have not succeeded in knowing for certain the real names of the owners of places.” The value of his system is evident when compared to the alternative, which often led to a proliferation of names that could change with political circumstances or as new identifications emerged.

Legacy and Long-term Impact

Fiorelli revolutionized Pompeian archaeology with his accurate mapping of Pompeii and systematic excavation techniques, setting standards for future work. His detailed methodologies have significantly impacted the preservation and interpretation of archaeological sites, ensuring historical information is safeguarded.

Today, his legacy continues in modern archaeology, promoting scientific and rigorous approaches to excavation and documentation.

Conclusion

Giuseppe Fiorelli revolutionized the excavation of Pompeii with meticulous methods and innovative techniques, enhancing our understanding of its ancient urban landscape.

His work remains crucial in archaeology, especially highlighting the importance of an accurate mapping of Pompeii in uncovering history. Fiorelli’s contributions offer valuable insights for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and Pompeii travelers.