Archaeologists at the prehistoric settlement of Dikili Tash in northern Greece have uncovered the oldest evidence of wine in Europe, dating back to 4200 BC. The analysis of ancient ceramic samples has revealed traces of wine, making this discovery the earliest known indication of vinification on the continent.
The Historical Dikili Tash Site
Located just 1.2 miles (1.93 km) from the ancient city of Philippi, Dikili Tash has been continuously inhabited since 6500 BC. This site features a tell, a human-made mound rising about 49 feet (15 meters) above the current ground level, covering 11 acres. Archaeological layers extend even further below the surface, offering a total of 55 feet (17 meters) of continuous human occupation.
Known for over a century as a significant Neolithic site, recent excavations have exposed its earliest layers, from the Early and Middle Neolithic periods. Although much remains unknown about the inhabitants of Dikili Tash during these times, the discovery of ancient wine provides valuable insights into their lives and raises questions about the role of alcohol in societal changes.
Earliest Evidence of Wine Consumption
Thousands of grape pips and grape marc were found in a single house at the site, indicating wine production. As reported by The Archaeology News Network, wine was being prepared in a large jar inside the house. Unfortunately, a fire around 4300 BC destroyed the dwelling but preserved the archaeobotanical evidence for over 6,000 years.
Dimitra Malamidou, co-director of the 2013 excavations, emphasized the significance of this find, stating, "The discovery provides crucial evidence of early agricultural and dietary practices in the Aegean region and European prehistory, which influenced social processes."
Sultana-Maria Valamoti, a professor of Prehistoric Archaeology and director of related research labs, highlighted the broader implications of this data, often overlooked, saying, "It sheds light on the social and economic organization in northern Greece, revealing aspects of daily life, farming, and specific symbolic activities from the 7th to 1st millennium BC."
Global Context and Related Discoveries
These wine traces represent the oldest known evidence of wine drinking in Europe. Comparatively, other studies have found a 6,100-year-old winery in Armenia and a 6,000-year-old wine sample in Sicily. Beyond Europe, scientists have uncovered traces of a 9,000-year-old Chinese alcoholic beverage made from rice, honey, and fruit.
Contribution of the PlantCult Program
The findings at Dikili Tash are part of the broader research efforts under the PlantCult program, which explores archaeobotany across Europe. This program, involving researchers from AUTH and other European institutions, combines studies of ancient plant remains, kitchen utensils, and grinding tools with ethnographic and literary research to enhance the understanding of ancient cuisine and plant ingredients.
An event titled “The research work at the Department of History and Archaeology of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki” recently showcased these discoveries. It also highlighted the finding of 4,000-year-old oatmeal at Mesimeriani Toumba (Trilofo) in Thessaloniki, providing insights into Neolithic cereal cooking practices in Greece.
Image: The discovery of the oldest wine traces in Europe originated from the site at Dikili Tash, Greece. (Source: Daria Minaeva/Adobe Stock)