Recent excavations at the ancient city of Hadrianopolis, a settlement used during the Chalcolithic, Roman, and Early Byzantine periods, have unearthed a bronze filter, shedding light on the drinking habits of its inhabitants. The filter, discovered by a team led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ersin Çelikbaş from the Department of Archaeology at Karadeniz Technical University, was used to separate pulp from beverages, suggesting the consumption of fruit-based drinks in the city.
The filter, found in an area designated as SDJ-3, is estimated to be around 1,500 years old. According to Çelikbaş, the filter was attached to a straw, approximately one meter long. People would use this straw to drink from a vessel while socializing. The filter was designed to be reusable, with a carrying ring for easy transport. The filter's discovery provides valuable insights into the daily lives of Hadrianopolis' inhabitants, revealing their sophisticated approach to beverage consumption.
The archaeological team has determined that Hadrianopolis was a hub for agricultural activity during the 5th century AD. Evidence suggests the cultivation of fruits like pears, apples, pomegranates, and grapes, as well as grains such as barley and wheat. The discovery of the bronze filter confirms that these agricultural products were used to create beverages that were enjoyed by the city's residents.
The filter's discovery highlights the ingenuity of ancient people in developing practical solutions for everyday needs. It also underscores the importance of archaeological research in uncovering hidden aspects of past civilizations and their cultural practices.