Bio-archaeological evidence of olive tree (Olea europaea L.) irrigation during the Middle Ages in Southern France and North Eastern Spain
Jean‐Frédéric Terral|Aline Durand
Quantitative eco-anatomical analyses were carried out on charred wood from modern olive trees (Olea europaea L.) in order to quantify influence of irrigation characters and detect irrigated specimens among charcoal assemblages dating back the Middle Ages. Data have been treated by multivariate statistical analysis tests performed discriminate samples according water supply. Results shown that it is possible, not only between wild cultivated as demonstrated previously, but also distinguish those dry conditions. Differences are discussed term ecological eco-physiological responses anatomy. Finally, data thus obtained applied fragments three Medieval sites (9–15th centuries AD), revealing practises currently employed trees. Although well adapted a Mediterranean climate, aiming increase productivity quality fruit oil. This first ever evidence based bio-archaeological approach.
Journal of Archaeological Science