Archaeologists have unearthed 'Nativity-like scene statues' in the ancient ruins of the Roman pagan city of Pompeii. Approximately 13 figurines were found in what was once a home, and while the terracotta pieces mirror a Christian scene, they were used in an ancient cult ritual. The miniature clay sculptures are about five inches high and found upright on a horizontal plane, probably a shelf that once hung inside the home.

Researchers determined the artifacts were to pay homage to the cult goddess Cybele, known for being the mother of the gods, and Attis, a mortal she fell in love with. Some statues were human figures, while others included a chicken head and a pine cone.