An Egyptian papyrus from the 3rd century BC, found in 1902 in the wrapping of a mummy, shows evidence of sewing, suggesting it was part of the oldest-known book.

The page, discovered in an Egyptian tomb, is an accounts document in Ancient Greek recording taxes on beer and olive oil. Experts believe it dates back to around 260 BC, during the rule of the Macedonian Greek Ptolemaic dynasty. The discovery was made during preservation work at Graz University Library in Austria.

The conservator, Theresa Zammit Lupi, noticed the format of a book with a central fold, stitching holes, and written text on the papyrus. This extraordinary find is considered the oldest book ever found.

The earliest evidence of stitched books dates back to 150 to 250 AD, much later than this discovery.

[Note: undated footage]