Changes in human-plant interactions in central Italy over time: collection and comparison of published and unpublished archaeobotanical data

Recent advancements in the field of archaeobotany have significantly enhanced our understanding of the historical interactions between humans and plants in Italy. This includes insights into ancient diets, resource selection, introduction of allochthonous economic plants, and their ceremonial applications. Despite the diffusion of archaeobotanical research, accessing this information remains challenging due to its dispersion across various scientific papers and archaeological reports, with the latter being particularly difficult to obtain. Moreover, this data is typically restricted to isolated findings or specific sites, which complicates the assembly of a comprehensive historical perspective. The establishment of the Botanical Record of Archaeobotany Italian Network (BRAIN) in 2015 marks a significant stride towards consolidating information about historical human-plant relations across Italy. This collaborative network and database compiles an extensive inventory of archaeological sites, detailing their specific locations, chronological context, culture, and the array of archaeobotanical research carried out, complete with bibliographic citations. This database is regularly enriched with the latest scholarly contributions. Within the scope of the PNRR PE5 CHANGES Spoke 8 and CN5 NBFC Spoke 3 projects, this study introduces a georeferenced instrument designed to synthesize and compare data on plant macro-remains from archeological and historical sites. This tool collates findings from both published sources within BRAIN and unpublished studies, standardizing the information and categorizing it chronologically. Currently focusing on central Italy, the initiative is set to expand and encompass the entire nation. By employing this newly formulated dataset, the process of reconstructing past dietary patterns and tracking the introduction of new species from the Neolithic period to the present becomes more feasible and direct. Consequently, this will enhance our ability to trace traditional plant uses in the past, including trade and importation showing origins and proliferation of archaeophytes and neophytes throughout the Italian Peninsula.