Category: ethnobotany
ITALY: Frozen in Ice – The curse of the Iceman – Ötzi
The Iceman — Ötzi, the Glacier Mummy is forever sleeping in a big refrigerator. The frozen mummy is stored in a specially devised cold cell, chilled to a glacial minus 6.5 degrees Celsius, or 20.3 degrees Fahrenheit, and 99% humidity. We can see him through a small window in the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology…
TIMELINE: A story of cacao/cocoa and chocolate
The story of how cocoa and chocolate was first discovered and then spread to all of the major countries on Earth is a fascinating tale that includes mythology, romance, politics, slavery, intrigue, heroics, deceit, greed, war and innovation. Discover the story of cacao/cocoa and chocolate. Cacao and chocolate is intricately intertwined with history: “kings and…
MEXICO: On Cacao in Popol Vuh
Discover cacao in Popol Vuh and the iconographic relationship between cacao and maize reflecting their importance within Maya cultures
MEXICO: TREELORE – On the historical and mythical origins of cacao in Mesoamerica
Discover historical and mythical origins of Cacao in Mesoamerica.
MEXICO: TREELORE – CACAO IN CHICHEN ITZA
Discover cacao in Chichen Itza, the most important archaeological vestige of the Maya-Toltec civilization in Yucatan, Mexico.
OMAN: Mythology, history and use of Frankincense or Hojari
Discover mythology, history and traditional medicinal use of Omani Frankincense Hojari, once and today.
PARAGUAY: On the origins of MATE
Visiting South America, we have often been invited to share a mate, by friendly and curious locals. Having a mate or terere means sharing stories and being part of a deeply cultural ritual. Discover legends, myths and folklore of the Yerba Mate tree in Paraguay and South America and its use in traditional Guarani and Tupi…
BOLIVIA: On the origins of papa – potato
Discover legends, myth, history and folklore of the potato plant in Bolivia and its use in traditional Andean culture.
ITALY | TYROL : The Legend of the Pale Mountains, the Dolomites
Dolomites beauty derives from a variety of spectacular vertical forms such as pinnacles, spires and towers, with contrasting horizontal surfaces including ledges, crags and plateaus. They rise abruptly above extensive talus deposits and more gentle foothills. Countless legends have grown up in the shadow of these pale mountains, inspired by observation of the natural landscape…
INDIA : TREELORE – Bodh Gaya where Buddha sat for enlightenment under the Maha Bodhi Tree
Discover Myths and Legends of the sacred fig tree at the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya where Buddha sat for enlightenment under Maha Bodhi Tree.