In addition to organizing the site, Fiorelli made significant strides in the preservation of Pompeii. He took great care to ensure that the buildings, frescoes, and other structures were preserved as accurately as possible, recognizing the importance of these remains for future generations. His careful attention to detail and his respect for the historical integrity of Pompeii set a standard for archaeological practice.
Later Career and Legacy
Giuseppe Fiorelli’s work at Pompeii was not only groundbreaking in terms of archaeological methodology but also in how it influenced future excavation practices. His approach to stratigraphy, cataloging, and preservation became the foundation of modern archaeological techniques, and his contributions helped to establish the discipline as a scientific field.
Fiorelli’s influence extended beyond Pompeii as well. In 1860, he became the director of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, where he oversaw the preservation and curation of the extensive collections from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other ancient Roman sites.
Fiorelli's dedication to the preservation and study of Pompeii has left an indelible mark on the field of archaeology. His methods continue to inform archaeological excavations today, and his plaster casts remain a haunting reminder of the human cost of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
Conclusion
Giuseppe Fiorelli was a visionary archaeologist whose contributions to the excavation and preservation of Pompeii have had a lasting impact on the field of archaeology. Through his innovative stratigraphic method, his creation of the plaster casts of Pompeii’s victims, and his meticulous approach to cataloging and preserving the site, Fiorelli revolutionized the way ancient ruins are studied and conserved. His legacy continues to be felt today, as Pompeii remains one of the most important and well-preserved archaeological sites in the world, offering a window into the daily life of ancient Rome and the catastrophic eruption that destroyed it. shutdown123