First Glimpse of Burnt Scroll After 2,000 Years

A burnt scroll from the Roman town of Herculaneum has been digitally “unwrapped” for the first time in 2,000 years, offering a rare look at its contents.

The Scroll’s Origins and Damage

The scroll, charred by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD, is too fragile to open physically. It was discovered alongside hundreds of carbonized scrolls in Herculaneum, which, like Pompeii, was buried under volcanic ash. Many of these scrolls had previously been deemed unreadable.

Groundbreaking Technology for Unfolding the Scroll

Using X-ray imaging and artificial intelligence, scientists have virtually “unwrapped” the scroll. Though still in the process of decoding, the results are promising, with some letters already visible. The scroll is believed to be a work of philosophy.

The Challenge of Decoding

The team is confident they will eventually read the entire scroll. The text appears to be a philosophical work, potentially linked to Greek Epicurean philosophy. The scroll contains around 10 meters of papyrus, with AI and high-tech scanning techniques used to identify the layers and detect the ink.

A Technological Marvel

The process involved the use of a synchrotron, a powerful machine in Oxfordshire, which produces X-rays capable of scanning the scroll without causing damage. The AI detects the ink on the papyrus and brings the text to light.

Future Prospects and the Human Connection

The team aims to expand from reading a few words to uncovering substantial passages. Nicole Gilroy, head of book conservation, expresses a deep human connection to the scrolls, emphasizing the emotional link to the ancient authors and collectors. The project continues to unravel history, one letter at a time.