Frescoes at the Villa dei Misteri (Villa of Mysteries) at Pompeii are being restored using a laser-based technology. The laser technology is being used to remove protective layers of paint that have been applied to the acclaimed frescoes over the centuries to restore the cycle of paintings to their original glory. Restoration work began two months ago and it is the first time the cutting-edge technology has been used to restore a cycle of paintings. The restoration project is expected to cost €900,000 and is being funded by the Soprintendenza Speciale per i Beni Archeologici di Napoli e Pompei. The use of laser is regarded as being the most efficient method and preferable to more invasive techniques using chemical agents. The Villa of Mysteries is one of more than 100 Ancient Roman villas constructed in the area during the 2nd century BC. Experts believe that its frescoes depict a ritual female initiation ceremony at a wedding. However, the exact nature of the scene depicted is unknown and experts have also suggested that it shows a woman being initiated into the cult of the Roman god Dionysus.
