Technology has enabled researchers to examine scorched papyrus scrolls destroyed by the volcanic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD, according to a report published Jan. 20 by the BBC.

Through x-ray phase contrast tomography, scientists are obtaining 3D scans of the insides of the scrolls.

The ancient town of Pompeii was leveled by the explosion, along with much of the town’s artifacts. Previous attempts to study the scrolls, found in a town villa, were abandoned due to the damage caused in trying to unroll the scrolls.