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Papyri and Manuscripts: Exploring Layers of Ages

Project description

Preserving ancient texts

Ancient papyri and medieval manuscripts are fragile. Their preservation is vital for safeguarding our cultural heritage and future access. Advances in digital tools and non-invasive science offer the potential of revealing hidden details without damaging these treasures. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the PAMELA project will bring together historians, scientists and digital experts in a major overhaul of manuscript research. The project will apply AI, material analysis and digital reconstruction to advance the study of how texts were created, transmitted and preserved. PAMELA will also train young researchers, ensuring lasting expertise in our cultural heritage.

Objective

The PAMELA (Papyri and Manuscripts: Exploring Layers of Ages) project is a pioneering initiative that transforms the study of Greek papyri and medieval manuscripts by integrating traditionally separate disciplines. Through a unique synergy of papyrology, manuscript studies, conservation science, AI-driven paleographic analysis, and material sciences, PAMELA introduces a new research paradigm for understanding the transmission and preservation of written heritage across historical periods.

Despite being housed in the same libraries and archives, papyri and manuscripts are rarely studied together due to disciplinary divides. PAMELA bridges this gap by fostering knowledge exchange between historians, digital humanities specialists, scientists, and technologists, redefining how these materials are analyzed. The project employs AI-assisted script recognition, non-invasive material studies, and digital reconstruction techniques, leading to deeper insights into textual transmission, manuscript production, and conservation strategies.

A key focus of PAMELA is training early-career researchers, equipping them with highly transferable skills in data science, digital humanities, and project management. International secondments will facilitate intersectoral collaboration between academic institutions, cultural heritage organizations, and private-sector technology firms, ensuring a robust exchange of expertise.

By developing open-access resources, digital repositories, and standardized methodologies, PAMELA will set a new standard in manuscript research and heritage preservation. Aligning with the MSCA Staff Exchanges scheme, the project fosters long-term collaboration, ensuring that the legacy of ancient and medieval texts remains accessible, scientifically advanced, and sustainable for future generations.

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Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-SE - HORIZON TMA MSCA Staff Exchanges

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-SE-01

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Coordinator

UNIVERZITA KARLOVA
Net EU contribution
€ 881 760,00
Address
OVOCNY TRH 560/5
116 36 Praha 1
Czechia
Region
Česko Praha Hlavní město Praha
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
No data

Participants (11)

Partners (6)