What Did Greek Hoplites Eat on Campaign?

In this history documentary, we explore what ancient Greek armies ate while on the campaign. The video begins with a review of what ancient Greeks typically ate at home. This included a three-meal tradition with lots of bread, cheese, olives, fish, legumes, leafy greens, and more.

Their diet was rich, but not all such products could be obtained whilst at war.

We next cover Greek army logistics to show how hoplite armies would feed and supply themselves whilst on the campaign.

Finally, we then reconstruct a typical Greek army diet. This includes a sesame and honey snack called Itrion, featured in Max Miller's Tasting History episode "Feeding a Greek Hoplite - Ancient Rations".

Hopefully, this gives you a good idea of what Greek Hoplites ate.

See the video:

Credit:

Research = Chris Das Neves
Script = Chris Das Neves
Narration = Guy Michaels
Reenactment = The Greek Phalanx (https://www.thegreekphalanx.org/)
Art = Penta Limited

Sources:

"Anabasis" by Xenophon
"Hellenika" by Xenophon
"Peace" by Aristophanes
"Courtesans and Fishcakes" by James Davidson

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro
02:21 Typical Greek Diet
03:54 Symposium
06:40 Army Logistics
09:36 Hoplite Breakfast
11:27 Itrion Snack
13:12 Obtaining Rations
15:01 Lunch
15:40 Dinner
18:33 Outro

READ MORE: The ENTIRE Story of the Trojan War Explained | Best Iliad Documentary.