The research team led by Professor Marta Osypińska has been honoured with an award in the poll organised by the archaeological magazine Archeologia Żywa in the category of ‘Greatest Treasure of 2024’. This recognition was granted for the discovery of papyri containing correspondence of Roman centurions, deposited in graves at the animal cemetery studied by the team in Berenike—an ancient port on the Red Sea.

The exceptionally well-preserved documents mention names such as Haosus, Lucinius, and Petronius, shedding light on the trade in luxury goods and the daily needs of the legionaries stationed in this key Roman outpost. This find provides new insights into the operations of the Roman administration and the activities of the Legio III Cyrenaica, known for its role in suppressing the revolt in Jerusalem and participating in the expansion into Nubia.

We extend our sincere congratulations on this well-deserved recognition and wish the team continued success in the ongoing season of interdisciplinary research in Egypt.