The Collaborative Research Center (CRC) 1266 at Kiel University (CAU) is currently directing its attention towards the study of nutrition in Trypillia mega-sites. These ancient settlements, situated in the forest steppe region northwest of the Black Sea, encompassed vast areas of land, spanning up to 320 hectares. It was approximately 6,000 years ago when the Trypillia societies began to flourish in what is now the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine. Notably, these mega-sites housed an impressive population of around 15,000 individuals, making them the largest known settlements of their time.
The CRC 1266 team is delving into the realm of nutrition within these remarkable archaeological sites. By analyzing various aspects of food consumption and dietary habits, researchers aim to shed light on the diverse nutritional practices prevalent among the inhabitants of Trypillia mega-sites. This multidisciplinary approach provides insights into the ancient society’s culinary traditions, agricultural techniques, and overall sustenance strategies employed by a flourishing civilization thousands of years ago.
Through meticulous excavation and examination of artifacts, the CRC 1266 researchers endeavor to uncover valuable information regarding the dietary patterns prevalent in Trypillia mega-sites. The analysis includes studying the remains of plants, animals, and other organic materials discovered at these archaeological sites. By scrutinizing the botanical assemblages, scientists can discern the types of crops cultivated by the Trypillia people, highlighting their agricultural practices and their reliance on certain staple foods.
Moreover, the investigation extends beyond plant-based resources and encompasses the examination of animal bones found within the mega-sites. The study of faunal remains offers crucial insights into the hunting, domestication, and breeding practices undertaken by the Trypillia communities. By deciphering these findings, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the role that animals played in the diet and economic activities of the ancient society.
To complement these analyses, the CRC 1266 team also scrutinizes various archaeological features within the mega-sites, such as storage facilities and cooking areas. These structures provide valuable clues about food processing techniques, preservation methods, and culinary practices employed by the Trypillia population. By unraveling these aspects, researchers can reconstruct the complex web of food preparation and consumption that dominated daily life in these ancient settlements.
The investigation into nutrition at Trypillia mega-sites conducted by the CRC 1266 underscores the significance of understanding ancient civilizations through their dietary choices and agricultural practices. By piecing together these fragments of the past, researchers can paint a more comprehensive picture of the Trypillia societies and their contributions to human history. Through their meticulous work, the team aims to illuminate the rich tapestry of this once-thriving civilization, offering a glimpse into the lives of its inhabitants, their sustenance strategies, and the factors that contributed to their remarkable growth and development.
