Dr. April F. Day, lead researcher on the excavation, described the discovery as “almost unbelievable,” citing the chariot’s unique features as strong evidence of its culinary function.

Pompeii, famously preserved by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, continues to reveal fascinating glimpses into Roman life. This latest find comes hot on the heels of a 2023 discovery of a fresco depicting what some believe to be an early form of pizza, further strengthening the case for Pompeii’s role as the birthplace of Italian fast food.

“We suspect this chariot was part of a sophisticated, high-speed delivery service catering to the bustling streets of ancient Pompeii,” said Dr. Day. “The Romans were pioneers in engineering, and this could very well be the precursor to the modern-day pizza scooter.”

The site, located just 23km (14 miles) from Naples – the modern-day home of the Unesco-protected Neapolitan pizza – is now undergoing further investigation. Some researchers are hopeful that they might uncover more evidence of ancient Roman takeaways, including a potential wood-fired oven cart or even remnants of the world’s first stuffed-crust prototype.

While the findings are still under review, the team remains optimistic.

“We’re slicing through history one layer at a time,” said Dr. Day. “If this chariot was indeed used for pizza delivery, it would prove once and for all that Romans knew how to deliver under pressure.”

For now, the mystery continues to bake in the minds of archaeologists and pizza lovers alike.