Roman soldiers grew leeks to add flavour to food, says the museum
The Romans gave us roads, plumbing, wine and irrigation and now it seems they may have also introduced Wales' unofficial icon - the garden leek.
The National Museum of Wales says the Romans probably planted domesticated varieties to flavour their stews.
The museum has recreated a Roman-design garden at the National Roman Legion Museum in Caerleon, near Newport.
The garden aims to show how troops posted to the edge of the empire created their own home-from-home.
"We've used archaeological remains and research to interpret a Roman garden," said Andrew Dixey, Estate Manager for National Museum Wales.
"The Romans invaded Britain in 43 AD and brought their garden designs with them.
Read the rest on the BBC.
# Posted by Michelle Moran @ |
Wednesday, September 24, 2008