Planting the Past – Archaeobotany in Groningen

What is archaeobotany?

The science that studies the relationship between humans and plants is called archaeobotany. Archaeobotanists search for and examine ancient plant remains—such as seeds, fruits, pollen, and wood—found during archaeological excavations. In doing so, they uncover how people lived in the past, which plants they used, and how those plants spread.

Research and techniques

In the exhibition Planting the Past: Archaeobotany in Groningen, you'll step into the world of archaeobotanical research in Groningen. Go behind the scenes of the laboratory and explore the extensive collection of remarkable seeds and plant remains under study. You’ll also learn about the techniques researchers use to read the story of the past through plant remains. Discover how archaeobotany helps us understand the deep-rooted connection between people and plants throughout history.