During an archaeological study prior to the modernization of the water supply system in the municipality of Giugliano in Campania, a remarkably preserved burial was discovered in a cultivated field near Naples. Initial analyzes indicate that this tomb dates back around 2,000 years.
The tomb was sealed by a slab of tuff and, upon its opening, the burial chamber revealed dazzling frescoes adorning its walls. Among these, an exceptional depiction of the three-headed dog Cerberus is particularly noteworthy, hence the apt nickname of the "Tomb of Cerberus".
Cerberus, also known as the "Hound of Hades", was the guardian of the gates of the Underworld, responsible for preventing the souls of the deceased from escaping. The fresco illustrates the capture of Cerberus, depicting the accomplishment of the twelve labors of Heracles.
The tomb also contains depictions of mythological scenes featuring the ichthyocentaurs, half-human, half-horse creatures with a fish's tail, embodying a human upper part, equine front legs and a fish-like tail.
Full excavation of this chamber tomb is underway before exploration of the extensive necropolis that surrounds it.
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