1,100-year-old parchment fragment discovered in Halle – sensation in the library!

1,100-year-old parchment fragment discovered in Halle – sensation in the library!

In a remarkable find, the University and State Library of Saxony-Anhalt in Halle has discovered a parchment fragment that is over 1,100 years old. This piece of history was found by chance while digitizing an aristocratic library. The fragment comes from the ancient, five-line writing “De materia medica” by the doctor Pedanios Dioscorides, who may have worked as a military doctor in the Roman army. This discovery is considered significant as it offers insights into ancient medical practices.

Julia Knödler, the head of the historical collections, describes the fragment as a cover for a book with Reformation writings from the 16th century. Particularly interesting is the content of the parchment, which describes the use of dried figs to treat bladder and kidney problems and recommends fresh figs as a laxative. Such medical findings are valuable witnesses to the tradition of knowledge about medicinal plants.

A look into the past

The fragment found shows the writings of a doctor who lived in a time when knowledge of medicinal plants was of great importance. Dioscorides' work is considered one of the most important historical sources of information about the use of medicines in antiquity. According to Knödler, the writing indicates that it was created in the 9th century, which makes the document all the more fascinating. Digitizing such treasures not only ensures their preservation, but also makes them easier to access for future generations.

What happens during digitalization? The find impressively shows how technical developments help bring hidden knowledge to light. The attentive eyes of the librarians have preserved a piece of our history.

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