Gabriel Zuchtriegel appointed new director of Pompeii Archaeological Park

Gabriel Zuchtriegel, a 39-year-old German-born archaeologist, has been named the new director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, succeeding Massimo Osanna. The appointment was announced by Italian Culture Minister Dario Franceschini. Zuchtriegel previously directed the Paestum and Velia archaeological parks since 2015, becoming the youngest 'super-director' of an Italian museum at age 34. He holds Italian citizenship since 2020 and has a PhD from Bonn University. The selection process involved 44 candidates, including 10 foreigners, and was overseen by a commission chaired by Justice Minister Marta Cartabia. Zuchtriegel's appointment has sparked controversy: two members of the park's scientific committee, Irene Bragantini and Stefano De Caro, resigned in protest, citing concerns about his age and qualifications. However, Franceschini and Osanna defended the choice, highlighting Zuchtriegel's scientific record and successful tenure at Paestum. Zuchtriegel will oversee continued excavations and management of EU-funded projects at the UNESCO World Heritage site.