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The Thermopolium of Asellina, on Via dell’Abbondanza, is one of Pompeii’s best-known commercial establishments. It served food and drink for sale and consumption, and takes its name from Asellina, who is mentioned in electoral inscriptions painted on the façade.
Inside is the characteristic masonry counter into which large terracotta storage jars, or dolia, were set. Finds made during excavation provide direct evidence of the establishment’s activity: coins were discovered beside the amphorae and others inside one of the counter’s dolia.
The façade is particularly important evidence for Pompeian political life. Numerous electoral notices record the names of women who publicly supported candidates for municipal office. Alongside Asellina appear Aegle, Maria and Zmyrina. The inscriptions show that although women could neither hold office nor formally vote, they could participate publicly in election campaigns by endorsing candidates.
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Further reading
Thermopolium of Asellina: counter and interior – Photographs show the masonry counter, embedded storage jars and surviving equipment.