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Scientists decipher new secrets from ancient scrolls scorched by Vesuvius eruption: "Finally able to read them"

Updated on: June 26, 2026 / 9:55 AM EDT / CBS News

Scientists decipher new secrets from ancient scrolls scorched by Vesuvius eruption: "Finally able to read them"

TL;DR

  • AI and advanced imaging have enabled the virtual unwrapping of ancient papyrus scrolls from Herculaneum, preserved but unreadable due to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
  • A major discovery includes recovering over 70 columns of text from one scroll and identifying two new ancient Roman books.
  • A previously unknown eight-book series by the philosopher Philodemus has been revealed.
  • Scholars can now read these ancient texts as complete arguments, a 'transformational shift' from previously fragmented interpretations.
  • More than 600 scrolls remain unread, and the project is ongoing with a call for continued expert assistance.