Sumerian-era restaurant unearthed in southern Iraq, revealing culinary practices of over 5,000 years ago

DHI QAR, Iraq — In a remarkable archaeological discovery, an American archaeological mission has uncovered the remains of a restaurant dating back to the Sumerian era in the ancient city of Lagash, located in Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq.

The excavated site unveiled the remnants of stoves and ovens utilized for food preparation, dating back some 5,000 years ago, shedding light on the culinary practices of the Mesopotamian civilization.

As announced by the Department of Investigation and Excavations, the American University of Pennsylvania’s mission, working in Lagash, known locally as Hill al-Haba, uncovered a building structure resembling a public or popular restaurant in terms of its design and functionality.

The mission’s statement further detailed the discovery of stoves and ovens within the restaurant premises, along with adjacent terraces designed for patrons to sit and enjoy their meals.

Among the findings, a large jar buried in one of the rooms caught the attention of archaeologists. Buried to the level of the crater, the jar was surrounded by insulating material, suggesting early preservation methods for cooling liquids.

The Department of Investigation and Excavations emphasized the unearthing of numerous residential neighborhoods and building foundations, including rooms and their annexes, all dating back to the dawn of the dynasties — approximately 5,000 years ago. This archaeological revelation offers a captivating glimpse into the daily life and practices of the ancient Sumerians.