The diversity of plant resources exploited in the palaces of Agbomè (kingdom of Danxomè/Dahomey), Bénin: the contribution of starch grain analysis from the palatial complex of Zasa (eighteenth to twentieth centuries AD)

Starch grain analysis from the Zasa palatial complex in Agbomè, Bénin, reveals that cereals, legumes, and tubers formed a significant part of the diet in the Danxomè kingdom (18th–20th centuries AD), alongside non-local resources like maize and wheat. This study provides the first detailed archaeobotanical evidence of plant resource exploitation in royal palaces, complementing existing knowledge on animal consumption. By analyzing stone tools and ceramics, researchers identified a diverse range of plants used for food and potential medical practices. Cross-referencing with oral and written sources further enriched the interpretation, offering insights into dietary habits, craft production, and cultural practices during this pivotal period in West African history.

Tokannou, S., Cagnato, C., & Petit, C. (2025). The diversity of plant resources exploited in the palaces of Agbomè (kingdom of Danxomè/Dahomey), Bénin: the contribution of starch grain analysis from the palatial complex of Zasa (eighteenth to twentieth centuries AD). Azania: Archaeological Research in Africa, 61(1), 140–167. https://doi.org/10.1080/0067270x.2025.2586374