Scientists Stunned by Man Whose Brain Turned to Glass in Vesuvius Eruption
The eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD preserved the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in a blanket of volcanic ash. Over the centuries, archaeologists have uncovered countless artifacts and remains, but one discovery stands out: the brain of a young man, seemingly turned to glass.
The Discovery
In 2020, a piece of glass was found in the skull of a 20-year-old man from Herculaneum. This discovery baffled researchers. At temperatures of over 900°F during the eruption, brain matter should have melted, not turned to solid glass. Yet, this man’s brain defied expectations and was preserved in a way never seen before in human or animal tissue.
What Caused the Glass Brain?
New research from Roma Tre University has shed light on this extraordinary find. Scientists suggest that the young man’s brain was flash-fried by a surge of superheated ash, raising his brain to the temperature required to create molten glass. As the temperature dropped quickly, one fragment of his brain solidified into glass, likely due to the unique position of his body.
The Aftermath
As the city was buried under layers of ash and rock, the glassified brain remained preserved for over 2,000 years. This rare preservation offers fascinating insights into ancient history, volcanic activity, and human biology. It also raises important questions about how extreme heat can alter human tissue in such an unexpected way.
The “glass brain” discovery continues to captivate both scientists and curious onlookers, offering a chilling glimpse into the horrors of Mt. Vesuvius’ eruption.
