Researchers decode ancient Herculaneum scroll using AI and particle accelerator

Researchers have successfully deciphered words from a 2,000-year-old Herculaneum scroll using artificial intelligence and a particle accelerator. This marks a significant advancement, as most of the text remains undeciphered, but words like "foolish" and "fear" have been identified. The scroll, known as PHerc. 172, was buried during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. It is too fragile to open, so advanced imaging techniques were employed to reveal its contents. The scroll is believed to be linked to the philosopher Philodemus. This achievement follows previous efforts to read Herculaneum scrolls, with researchers noting that this scroll contains more recoverable text than any scanned before. Further work is needed to enhance software methods for complete deciphering.