Some ancient papyrus manuscripts have survived for millennia due to the particular climatic conditions in which they were stored, such as the dry and arid environments of deserts, which prevented deterioration from humidity and mold.
Papyrus is an aquatic plant. It grows along the Nile. The ancient Egyptians used its stems to make paper. The stems are cut into thin strips. These strips are then placed in overlapping layers. Afterwards, they are pressed and dried. This process makes papyrus durable and resistant.
Papyrus is composed of cellulose fibers. These fibers are natural and strong. They withstand time and mechanical damage well. Papyrus is also lightweight and flexible. This facilitates its handling and preservation.
This type of paper is less sensitive to humidity compared to other ancient materials. However, it can degrade if too exposed to water. Papyrus is susceptible to fungi and mold. But, it withstands better than other documents when stored in dry places.
Papyrus is essentially an organic material that, fortunately, withstands the passage of time well, especially under favorable conditions.
Climate and environment play a crucial role in the preservation of papyrus manuscripts. The Egyptian desert, for example, is an ideal place to discover intact papyri. Why? Because the air there is extremely dry and the temperatures are high. These arid conditions prevent the growth of molds and bacteria that would normally decompose the papyrus. Additionally, the sandy soil is a superb insulator. It protects the buried papyrus scrolls from sudden temperature fluctuations.
Another factor is the almost complete absence of rain in regions like ancient Egypt. The less it rains, the less water there is to damage or decompose the papyrus fibers. It is interesting to note that many papyri found come from tombs and temples, places preserved from the climatic elements thanks to their architecture.
In short, it is thanks to this winning combination of dryness, heat, and natural insulation that some papyrus works have been able to remain intact for millennia.
The ancient Egyptians did not take the preservation of manuscripts lightly. First and foremost, they used papyrus scrolls, and when they rolled them up, they applied a layer of flour glue to seal everything, ensuring they didn't fall apart. To prevent moisture damage, they opted for sealed jars. Most manuscripts were safely kept from prying eyes in wooden or stone chests. During certain ceremonies, specific rituals were performed to spiritually "protect" the writings, so they would be blessed and preserved.
Libraries were crucial. The libraries of Alexandria and Pergamum are emblematic examples. They gathered enormous collections of manuscripts and established methods for their preservation. Scribes worked there tirelessly to copy rare works, thus extending their lifespan. The royal and administrative archives of ancient civilizations also stored significant documents. Papyrus scrolls were carefully stored to avoid moisture and excessive light. These institutions created ideal conditions for the prolonged conservation of manuscripts, allowing some works to reach us. This is how these places played an essential role in the survival of writings.
Excavations have led to the discovery of manuscripts several millennia old. Protected in earthenware jars or caves, they have escaped moisture and wear. The Dead Sea Scrolls are a famous example: discovered in 1947, they date from 250 B.C. to 68 A.D. Thanks to modern preservation techniques, such as controlled dehydration and vacuum environments, these literary treasures can be preserved for longer. Archaeology plays a key role in unearthing and preserving these documents, connecting the past and the present in a tangible way. These manuscripts are then studied, cataloged, and safely exhibited in museums or libraries, where they continue to inspire historians and enthusiasts.
Papyrus was often used in ancient Egypt not only for writing, but also to make sandals, mats, ropes, and even boat sails.
Some ancient papyrus manuscripts have been found in Egyptian tombs, where the preservation conditions were ideal due to the heat and dryness.
The word 'papyrus' comes from the ancient Greek 'papuros', which referred to the aquatic plant Cyperus papyrus used to make this writing material.
The ancient Egyptians believed that the god Thoth was the creator of writing and papyrus was considered a gift from this god.
Papyrus is made up of overlapping plant fibers, creating a solid and durable surface for writing.
Dry and arid conditions, as well as the absence of humidity and direct light, promote the preservation of papyrus manuscripts.
Experts use delicate methods such as fiber consolidation, digitization, and stabilization to restore damaged papyrus manuscripts.
Ancient civilizations processed papyrus by drying, pressing, and polishing it to create a smooth surface suitable for writing.
Humidity, light, insects, and micro-organisms can damage papyrus manuscripts if they are not properly preserved.
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