Emily Chan
Researchers found the papyrus in fragments that were rolled up. An expert in ancient inscriptions named Rodney Asta was able to piece together a page that was roughly one and a half feet long and a foot wide.
In addition, numerous pottery pieces etched with writing were uncovered among the animal graves.
The letters provide solid proof that extensive Roman trade took place in the region. The skeletons of buried monkeys that were native to India also showed that Romans imported animals across oceans.
Many of the monkeys, cats, and dogs were considered “elite pets” and were buried with toys and ceramics.
