Discover the fascinating world of ancient Egypt in programs that explore the daily life, culture, and innovations of one of the world’s most influential civilizations. Scholar Shelby Justl of the Penn Museum in Philadelphia draws on the discoveries of ongoing archaeological explorations and experimental archaeology to bring to life the rich history of Egypt and its expanding role on the global stage.
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Eating and Drinking Like an Egyptian
Ever wonder what you’d eat if you lived 4,000 years ago? Explore evidence of food and drink found in tomb and temple scenes and ancient burial sites that reveals an Egyptian diet that included bread, beer (starting at age 5), figs, legumes, onions, lettuce, honey, and at times meat and fish. Justl looks at how these items were produced; taboos associated with ancient foods; and how a commoner’s diet differs from that of wealthier folk with more access to meat. She discusses recent discoveries—including the world’s oldest known industrial-scale beer factory found in 2021—and her own research into ancient Egyptian honey and beekeeping.
Additional Sessions of the Exploring Ancient Egypt Series
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