The origins of beer are unclear, but today, we have ancient evidence that can determine just how ancient this drink, now beloved throughout the world, may be. It is estimated that when beer was born, through the first fermentations of some cereals, the civilizations of the time were not yet able to report it. The testimonies are, therefore, probably later, and the first findings coincide with the birth of writing in the Middle East.
WHEN BEER WAS BORN
Beer is probably the oldest alcoholic drink in the world, with the first evidence of its existence dating back over 5000 years. The origins of beer can be traced back to Mesopotamia, where ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians produced a fermented drink made from cereals.
I Sumerians, who are often credited with inventing beer, called it “clear-seeing water,” a reference to its alcoholic properties. Beer production later spread to other ancient cultures, such as the Babylonians, which had different types of beer and specific legislation for its production and marketing, and the Egyptians, where it was so highly valued that it was used as pay for workers and produced exclusively by priestesses in temples.
DISTRIBUTION IN ITALY AND AROUND THE WORLD
As the centuries passed, beer continued to evolve and spread to various parts of the world. Initially viewed with suspicion by Roman culture, who considered it a barbaric product compared to the wine, beer gradually gained appreciation, especially through contacts with Egypt and the Celts.
During the'Roman imperial era, beer also began to be appreciated in the imperial courts, with figures such as Nero being great admirers. Beer was also a traded product in the Roman Empire, used not only for consumption but also for women's cosmetics, thanks to its emollient properties. Over time, beer crossed the ocean with the Pilgrim Fathers, reaching America, and continued to develop and diversify, becoming one of the most beloved and consumed beverages in the world.
BI.VI.LA. PROJECT
The project "Bi.Vi.La.”, acronym for "Beer, and more, is the star of Lazio", highlighted theexcellence of the regional agri-food system through the pairing of three types of beer with cold cuts e cheese coming from organic farms in the area, part of the Etruscan-Roman Biodistrict.
Organized by the Anna Maria Catalano Foundation, with the grant of the ARSIAL Agency, the event began with the screening of a film in which the Master brewer of Podere 676 He told the story of beer (video above).
Following the program, participants had the opportunity to take a guided tour of the cultivated fields barley, hop grove and vegetable garden, as well as visiting the laboratory and the production area of the Podere 676 BreweryThe event also offered an informative and educational section, focusing on the production, marketing and consumption of beer, underlining the quality of the current types of beers and the commitment of the Podere 676 Brewery in research and experimentation to reduce the environmental impact of the production process.
In short, the production process has changed radically since beer was invented. And local initiatives, like these promoted by the Lazio region, allow us to continue a thousand-year-old tradition, with high-quality artisanal production and the goal of becoming increasingly sustainable.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT BEER:
- Beer: All the Benefits and the Best in the World
- How to use beer for plants
- Shiny hair with beer and rosemary infusion
- TRI21: Craft beer created by kids with Down syndrome
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