What is papyrus?

Papyrus is a thick paper-like material made from the pith of the papyrus plant, Cyperus papyrus. In ancient times, it was widely used in Egypt and the Mediterranean region as a writing surface. Documents written on papyrus consisted of sheets joined together and rolled into scrolls, serving as an early form of a book. Beyond writing, ancient Egyptians used papyrus for various artifacts like boats, mats, rope, sandals, and baskets. The use of papyrus dates back to at least the First Dynasty in Egypt and continued throughout the Mediterranean region. <img alt="" src="https://miro.medium.com/v2/resize:fit:700/1*SL1lMuKEvl0sjtKP74ILVA.jpeg" style="height:498px; width:700px" /> Papyrus originated in Egypt around the fourth millennium BCE. The earliest evidence comes from documents found at Wadi al-Jarf dating back to 2560–2550 BCE, describing the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza. Papyrus scrolls were later challenged by parchment made from animal skins. Codices, or early books, replaced scrolls due to their flexibility and durability. <a href="https://medium.com/@paolopregazzi/what-is-papyrus-591b3b5e0ae3">Website</a>