A publication of the Archaeological Institute of America
El SalvadorArchaeologists have long wondered how the Maya supported populations up to 100,000 at cities like Tikal because maize alone could not have provided the necessary calories. But there may have been another Maya staple--manioc. Researchers found 1,400-year-old rows of the prolific, starchy tubers buried under volcanic ash at Céren. It is the first discovery of a pre-Hispanic manioc planting bed ready for the next season of growth.
ItalyA high-speed rail link between Rome and Naples is about to plow through an ancient tannery. The 2nd- or 3rd-century A.D. site is believed to be the oldest tannery in Rome and contains nearly 100 three-foot-diameter tubs. At 1,200 square yards, it was an industrial-scale operation, as will be any attempt at salvage. The rail construction may force archaeologists to move the entire site to a nearby park--an expensive and risky proposition.
Near & Middle East
IsraelWhile the modern beekeeping industry faces a crisis of mysterious colony collapses, archaeologists have found 30 ancient hives that date back 3,000 years. Made of clay and straw, the hives had lids so the beekeepers in the city of Rehov could collect honey and wax. Texts describe beekeeping in biblical times, but no examples of such organized, commercial honey production had ever been found. "Land of milk and honey," indeed.