Honey

• Type: Chapter or Part of a Book
• Date: 2025

Authors

Wallace-Hare, David (Author) Other; Morais, Rui (Author) FLUP

Book

Title: Oxford Classical Dictionary

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Indexing

Crossref

Other information

DOI: 10.1093/acrefore/9780199381135.013.3145

Abstract (EN): The origins of honey hunting and beekeeping are intertwined with mythology, with the first recorded honey collection by the Cunetes tribe in ancient southern Iberia. The Romans, notably through the writings of Columella, offer deep insights into honey production and processing methods. Varied classifications of honey were determined by ancient authors and included seasonal and regional distinctions, with the most highly esteemed types coming from thyme-rich regions like Mount Hymettus in Attica and Mount Hybla in Sicily. Honey was stored and transported in specialised containers like amphorae and honeypots. Recent archaeological studies have utilised organic residue analysis to detect ancient honey and wax residues, revealing insights into ancient beekeeping practices. Honey was further processed into products, such as hydromel and mulsum, and possibly used in fish preparations, highlighting its versatile role in ancient diets and commerce.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

Notes: Published online: 22 December 2015; This version: 17 September 2025. Article rewritten and expanded to reflect current scholarship.

No. of pages: 8