Scrollprize

Why reading every Herculaneum scroll is still a challenge: how scanning, virtual unwrapping, and ink detection work today - and where you can help.

PHerc. 1667, sealed since the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, has been virtually unwrapped and read from beginning to end - the first Herculaneum scroll recovered in full, without ever being opened.

Title of a still-rolled Herculaneum scroll has been read for first time ever

Our first set of progress prizes for 2025 features continued high-quality work from several dedicated contributors.

This year, we're issuing more frequent, targeted awards that address specific technical challenges.

For the past several months, our team and community have been working hard on ink detection and segmentation of P.Herc.

PHerc. 172 (Scroll 5) is here.

The 2000-year-old scroll discusses music, food, and how to enjoy life's pleasures.

Vesuvius Challenge $700,000 Grand Prize

The race for the First Letters prize is heating up