A 2,000-year-old skull found in the ruins of Pompeii has provided a groundbreaking discovery that sheds light on the mysterious glass-like material discovered inside it. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that the pyroclastic flows that engulfed the city in 79 CE were hot enough to liquefy and then vitrify the brain tissue.
Scientists have long debated the origin of the glassy substance found in the skull, but a new analysis has provided conclusive evidence. The researchers point to the rapid cooling process following the intense heat from the pyroclastic flows as the key factor in transforming the organic material into glass. They also analyzed charcoal fragments near the remains and compared them to recent volcanic eruptions, supporting their hypothesis.
Using advanced imaging techniques, the team discovered preserved structures resembling nerve cells within the glassy fragments, confirming that the material was indeed brain tissue. Forensic anthropologist Pier Paolo Petrone noted that the process allowed for the integral preservation of biological brain material and its microstructures.
This discovery is a significant breakthrough, as it is the first known case of human brain vitrification under natural conditions. The researchers explain why only the brain was preserved in this state, attributing it to the skull providing protection and allowing the brain to remain partially intact until cooling by the dissipating ash cloud.
Despite new evidence, some experts still question the findings. However, as scientific techniques advance, further research may uncover additional cases of this rare phenomenon, continuing the debate over the “glass brain” mystery.
Source: https://archaeologymag.com/2025/03/ancient-glass-brain-mystery-herculaneum