New EU-Backed Robot Aims to Rebuild Pompeii’s Shattered Frescoes

Pompeii’s long-buried Roman frescoes may soon be restored with unprecedented speed and precision, thanks to a new robotic system developed under the EU-funded RePAIR project. The technology blends advanced image recognition, AI “puzzle-solving,” and ultra-delicate robotic hands to tackle one of archaeology’s most painstaking challenges: reassembling fragmented artefacts.

Launched in 2021 and coordinated by Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, the project brings together international research teams who have used Pompeii itself as a testing ground. The goal emerged from a practical need—reconstructing fresco fragments destroyed during World War II—according to site director Gabriel Zuchtriegel.

A new robotic system—combining advanced image recognition, AI-powered puzzle-solving and ultra-precise robotic hands—is being tested at Pompeii to help archaeologists reconstruct frescoes shattered and buried for centuries.

The system uses dual robotic arms with soft, flexible grippers and vision sensors capable of identifying, lifting and joining fragile pieces without damage. Meanwhile, AI algorithms map colours, textures and patterns—even those invisible to the human eye—helping determine which fragments belong together.

Researchers tested the technology on replicas of frescoes shattered during the AD 79 Vesuvius eruption, later bombed during WWII, and pieces from the collapsed House of the Gladiators. The challenge is akin to solving an enormous jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces and no reference image—but robotics and AI may finally offer a breakthrough.

If successful, the approach could reshape restoration work worldwide, giving destroyed artworks—from Pompeii to other ancient sites—a new chance at life.