What Is Papyrus?

Papyrus, a plant that grew wild in the marshy areas of ancient Egypt, had many uses but was most commonly used as a writing material. Thousands of examples of these ancient papyri still exist today, and provide invaluable insight into the everyday lives of ancient peoples.

History

The plant Cyperus papyrus was first used to make writing material more than 4,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. It was commonly exported to ancient Greece and Rome. However, most ancient papyri still in existence have been found in the deserts of Egypt, because the humidity at other ancient sites made the papyri disintegrate over time.

Time Frame

Papyrus continued to be used as Egypt's primary writing material until the Arabs introduced paper approximately 1,000 years ago.

Function

Although we commonly think of papyrus as a writing material, the ancient Egyptians also used it for such diverse products as mattresses, boats and sandals.

Geography

In ancient times, the papyrus plant grew throughout the Nile Delta of Egypt, although it is now extinct in the wild. It can still be found growing wild at other sites in Africa but is also cultivated in Egypt on a limited scale.

Fun Fact

Thousands of papyri, including extremely valuable literary works, have been excavated from a gigantic garbage dump in the ancient town of Oxyrhynchus, in Upper Egypt.

Resources

• Learn about papyrus from the University of Michigan