This is perhaps the oldest trick in the book for trying to read palimpsests, but it has its drawbacks. After repeated exposure to direct sunlight, the writing on the manuscript will start to fade.

If you like, you can undo the damage using the button in the sidebar (not found on actual palimpsests).

In the past, people experimented with chemical reagents on palimpsests to enhance the text that had been written over. These chemicals were very destructive, and would eventually turn the palimpsest black and unreadable.

If you like, you can undo the damage using the button in the sidebar (not found on actual palimpsests).

… and accidentally left a cup stain on the palimpsest! In general, safety precautions while working with such priceless artifacts forbid eating or drinking in your workspace area to prevent accidents of this type.

If you like, you can undo the damage using the button in the sidebar (not found on actual palimpsests).

Enter your e-mail address below and we'll send you a screenshot of your work on the palimpsest, along with some additional information on palimpsests in general and Codex Zacynthius in particular.