A microbotanical and microwear perspective to plant processing activities and foodways at Neolithic Çatalhöyük

A new analysis of Neolithic Çatalhöyük reveals previously unknown plant processing practices and foodways, integrating microbotanical evidence with microscopic wear patterns on grinding tools. The study, focusing on the Middle (6700-6500 cal BC) and Late (6500-6300 cal BC) periods, identifies a diverse range of geophytes and wild seasonal resources through phytoliths and starch analyses. By comparing microbotanical proxies with artifact wear, researchers discerned specific plant processing techniques, expanding our understanding of crop utilization at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Santiago-Marrero, C. G., Tsoraki, C., Lancelotti, C., & Madella, M. (2021). A microbotanical and microwear perspective to plant processing activities and foodways at Neolithic Çatalhöyük. Plos One, 16(6), e0252312. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0252312