New archaeobotanical finds from Baradla Cave

Recent archaeobotanical analysis of charred plant remains from the Baradla Cave, part of the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst UNESCO World Heritage Site, has revealed the presence of emmer wheat, barley, pea, and lentil seeds. These findings, derived from soil samples collected during a 2019 rescue excavation in the Róka-ág branch of the cave, contribute to our understanding of prehistoric agricultural practices in Northern Hungary. Despite the poor preservation of the remains, the study highlights the significance of Baradla Cave as one of the oldest known prehistoric sites in the region, with artifacts predominantly dating back to the Middle Neolithic and Late Bronze Age. The uncertain dating of samples adds complexity to interpreting these discoveries.

Mervel, M. (2024). New archaeobotanical finds from Baradla Cave. Dissertationes Archaeologicae, 3(11), 33–46. https://doi.org/10.17204/dissarch.2023.33