Cereal Archaeology

Cereal archaeology is the study of ancient grains and cereal crops—such as wheat, barley, and maize—using scientific methods to understand their origins, evolution, and historical significance. Researchers analyze archaeological remains, like charred grains or tools, to uncover how ancient peoples cultivated and consumed these crops. This field helps trace agricultural development, trade, and cultural exchanges over thousands of years, providing insight into early human diets and domestication processes. Ultimately, cereal archaeology sheds light on how staple foods shaped civilizations and influenced modern agriculture.