“AI aids Pompeii scroll decryption, students decipher ‘purple’ – Vesuvius Challenge winners.”
Researchers have harnessed the power of artificial intelligence to make significant progress in interpreting ancient scrolls retrieved from the library of a Pompeii villa, which endured destruction during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This groundbreaking discovery was reported by Professor Brent Seales from the University of Kentucky.
Two computer science students, one from the United States and the other from Germany, have made separate breakthroughs by identifying a Greek term, “πορφύραc,” signifying “purple.” This represents a crucial initial stride towards achieving a full comprehension of the contents of these scrolls, as acknowledged by experts.
Remarkably, both of these students have been recognized as the winners of the Vesuvius Challenge. Launched in March, this challenge aimed to motivate independent researchers to take on the formidable task of unraveling the scrolls, making it a noteworthy achievement for these budding scholars.
