Pompeii: Seeds and fruits from workshop VII 14, 3

Abstract

This paper presents a study of carpological remains discovered at Pompeii (VII 14, 3) during archaeological investigations conducted by the University of Genoa. Samples were collected from contexts spanning from the late 3rd century BC to 79 AD. During this time-frame, the area underwent numerous transformations, serving consecutively as an open space with latrines, a disposal site for domestic waste, a location for craft workshops, and ultimately hosting a workshop.

Except for a few samples preserved for future analysis, sediments from the contexts examined underwent thorough water-sieving on a declining-mesh sieve column and simultaneous flotation. The material examined comes from 60 samples (15 obtained via visual inspection and 45 by means of flotation) relating to 29 stratigraphic units, totalling approximately 2.2 m³ of soil.

Given the sealed and undisturbed nature of these contexts, the consistent composition of accumulations derived from faeces and food remains, in both the older and newer latrines and the refuse dump, suggests a continuity in dietary choices lasting several centuries, despite the evolving use of the area.

Carpological remains provide minimal evidence of natural environments or other anthropized contexts, highlighting the cleanliness and orderliness of the area occupied by latrines and the refuse dump, which functioned as a well-maintained courtyard.

The collective data suggest that this part of the city was already fully urbanized by the 2nd century BC. Stratigraphic evidence indicates continued activity even after the foundation of the Roman colony, portraying a diverse consumption pattern including various major cereals (Hordeum and Triticum spp.), along with millet and foxtail millet, some legumes, other vegetables, and abundant fruits.