The Long-Term Human-Mediated Success of Olive Trees in the Central Mediterranean: A Multiproxy Perspective

Laura Sadori, Jordan Palli, Sabina Fiolna, Monica Bini, Federico Cappella, Adam Izdebski, Alessia Masi, Scott Mensing, Lorenzo Nigro, Gianluca Piovesan, Giovanni Zanchetta

Abstract

This study investigates the long-term ecological history of olive trees (Olea europaea) in the Central Mediterranean through a high-resolution multiproxy analysis of sediment cores from Pantano Grande (a.k.a, Lago Ganzirri, northeastern Sicily). Integrating palynological, geochemical, and archaeological data, the research reconstructs 3700 years of land-use dynamics, highlighting the role of human societies in driving olive trees propagation. Major phases of expansion, decline, and resilience of Olea correspond to significant historical transitions, including the Bronze Age collapse, Greek colonization, Roman agricultural intensification, and post-medieval resurgence. The results underscore the adaptability of olive-based agroecosystems and their sensitivity to both climatic and sociopolitical change. This work contributes to understanding long-term human-environment interactions and the ecological legacy of ancient land use practices.

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IMEKO-Metroarchaeo-2025-069.pdf

DOI

10.21014/tc26-2025.069

IMEKO TC

TC26 - Metrology for Cultural Heritage

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