A round white limestone artifact, dating back to the Roman era, has puzzled researchers for years due to its mysterious geometric lines. Recent advancements in technology, particularly the use of artificial intelligence, have shed light on its purpose, suggesting that it is an ancient board game. The AI successfully deduced the game’s rules, demonstrating the potential of technology in archeological research.

3D imaging studies revealed that some of the lines on the stone were deeper than others, indicating that the game pieces may have moved at different frequencies. Walter Crist, an archaeologist from Leiden University, noted observable wear along the lines of the stone, which corresponds to where game pieces would have slid during play. This finding provides crucial evidence for understanding how ancient Romans engaged in leisure activities, enriching our knowledge of their cultural practices.

Researchers from Maastricht University furthered the investigation by employing an artificial intelligence program named Ludii, trained with rules from about one hundred ancient games from the region. The findings, published in the journal Antiquity, highlight the innovative intersection of technology and archaeology, showcasing how such advancements can unlock secrets of the past that have remained hidden for centuries.