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Discovery In An Ancient Roman City Reveals Popular Dietary Habits, With Dishes Including Pork, Fish, And Even Fried Birds
Archaeologists discovered remains of songbirds in an ancient Roman snack bar on the island of Mallorca, Spain. The discovery surprised experts by showing that these birds, previously considered delicacies of the elite, were also part of the popular diet.
The remains were found in a septic pit near the forum of the ancient city of Pollentia.
Snack Stop
The excavated site was a “popina“, as the Romans called fast food outlets. The structure was discovered in the 1990s, containing six amphorae that stored wine or olive oil.
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Alongside them, archaeologists found a pit about 1.2 meters wide and 4 meters deep. At the bottom, there were bones from various animals.
Among the remains were pigs, rabbits, fish, shells, and also species like sheep, goats, cattle, and domestic birds.
The most unusual finds were the thrushes — songbirds — which, according to historical sources, were usually only served at luxury banquets.
Birds For Everyone
The study was published in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology. The authors state that the presence of these birds in a popular snack bar changes the perception of Roman cuisine. For them, the dietary habits of the time were more varied and accessible than previously imagined.
“These discoveries contribute to discussions about the diversity of Roman dietary habits,” the researchers wrote. According to them, songbirds appeared in smaller numbers in the trash of the popina, but their presence is still significant. This may indicate limited consumption due to seasonal factors, as thrushes migrate to the island in winter.
How They Were Prepared
Classical sources describe elaborate recipes using these birds, including milk cakes, spice-filled stuffing, and roasted preparations. In Pollentia, archaeologists believe they have found a simple and efficient pattern for preparing the thrushes: Roman cooks would cut the bird, break the sternum to flatten it, and fry it whole in olive oil.
Only smaller bones remained, such as skulls, sternums, wings, and legs. The fleshiest parts were absent, suggesting they were consumed on-site. The remains help to imagine Romans enjoying a hot snack amid the hustle and bustle of the city forum.
Busy City Full Of Flavors
Ancient Pollentia was an active commercial center. The Roman city was founded after the conquest of the Balearic Islands in 123 BC and developed with a forum, temples, theater, residential neighborhoods, workshops, shops, and necropolises. The network of taverns and food outlets was part of the locals’ daily life.
In addition to thrushes, remains of weasels, pigeons, rodents, a dog, a crane, and even a reptile were also found. This indicates a wide variety of ingredients used by establishments of the time.
Change Of Perspective
For a long time, it was believed that birds like thrushes were exclusive to the wealthy. However, new research shows that, on a smaller scale, they were also available to the general public.
Scholars still do not know how much a dish with songbird cost, but evidence reveals a more democratic menu than previously thought.
The full study is available in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology.
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