Pompeii’s magic casts new spell on experts

Archaeologists in Pompeii have discovered a cache of more than 100 amulets and pendants featuring mysterious skull icons and phallic symbols, as well as items used in magic rites. ‘‘We have never found a collection like this, which is so large and varied. It’s an amazing discovery,’’ said Massimo Osanna, who is overseeing excavations at the site, which was buried when Vesuvius erupted in AD 79.