Archaeologists in Türkiye’s central Eskişehir province have made a groundbreaking discovery that is set to change the way we think about the history of bread. They have uncovered what is believed to be the world’s oldest known example of leavened and baked bread, dating back nearly 5,000 years.
The discovery was made at the site of a prehistoric settlement in the Karakaya Dam Reservoir area, where a team of archaeologists from the Eskişehir Osmangazi University have been conducting excavations since 2012. The team, led by Professor Necmi Karul, has been working tirelessly to uncover the secrets of this ancient settlement, and their efforts have finally paid off with this remarkable find.
The bread was found in a stone fireplace, perfectly preserved under a layer of ash. It is estimated to be around 5,000 years old, which makes it significantly older than the previous record holder for the world’s oldest bread, which was found in Jordan and dated back to 4,000 years ago.
What makes this discovery even more remarkable is that the bread was leavened, meaning that it was made using a sourdough starter. This is a technique that is still used today, and it is believed that this ancient bread would have had a similar taste and texture to the bread we know and love today.
According to Professor Karul, this discovery is a game-changer in the study of bread and its history. He stated, “This is the oldest known example of leavened bread in the world, and it provides us with valuable insights into the development of bread-making techniques in ancient civilizations.”
The discovery of this ancient bread has also shed light on the diet and lifestyle of the people who lived in this settlement. It is believed that they were early farmers who cultivated wheat and barley, which were used to make the bread. This shows that bread has been a staple food in human diets for thousands of years, and its importance cannot be underestimated.
The team of archaeologists is now working to analyze the bread and its ingredients in more detail. They hope to gain a better understanding of the techniques used to make it and the type of grains that were used. This will provide valuable information about the agricultural practices of the time and the development of bread-making in ancient civilizations.
The discovery of this ancient bread has also sparked excitement among food historians and enthusiasts. It is a tangible link to our past and a reminder of the importance of bread in human history. It is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our ancestors, who were able to create such a staple food using simple tools and techniques.
This discovery also highlights the importance of preserving and protecting archaeological sites. The Karakaya Dam Reservoir area is home to many ancient settlements, and it is crucial that these sites are properly excavated and studied before they are lost forever. The Eskişehir Osmangazi University team is doing important work in this regard, and their efforts have resulted in this groundbreaking discovery.
The news of the world’s oldest bread being found in Türkiye has garnered international attention, with many experts and media outlets hailing it as a significant discovery. It is a proud moment for Türkiye and a testament to the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the discovery of the world’s oldest known leavened bread in Türkiye’s Eskişehir province is a remarkable achievement that has the potential to change our understanding of the history of bread. It is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our ancestors and a reminder of the importance of preserving and studying our past. This discovery is a cause for celebration and a reminder of the endless possibilities that lie buried beneath the earth, waiting to be uncovered by dedicated archaeologists.
