Pompeii's many historical wonders tell us a lot about how the people of this ancient city lived. A quiet corner between the maze of buildings known as the Garden of the Fugitives gives a poignant insight into the catastrophe that devastated this city overnight. When the excavation of Pompeii began in the 19th century, archaeologists found decomposing bodies of people and animals, and by pouring plaster into the air pockets left among the rubble, they were able to freeze many of the victims. Thirteen bodies were found in the Fugitives Park, and their molds were laid out for display. This parks is now considered a poignant memorial to those who died in the blast that preserved the city for visitors.