Along the Danube archaeologists have discovered embedded ceramic structures that were used to keep the precious grape juice at operating temperature during the summer.
Roman soldiers occupying what is now northern Bulgaria, along the Danube, had to contend with all sorts of rebellions against the Empire, but at least they could keep their wine reasonably cool. Archaeologists have discovered a 2,000-year-old ceramic structure that they believe was used to store wine and perishable food.
According to Ars Technica, this is the second Roman wine refrigerator of this type found at the former fortress of the archaeological site of Novae, which was built in the first century AD and helped put down the Thracian revolt. It also served as a base for the first Italian legion raised by Emperor Nero.
Archaeologist Piotr Dyczek of the University of Warsaw leads a team that has been studying the excavation site for decades. The information and fragments of wine drinking vessels, bowls and animal bones have allowed the team to reconstruct the soldiers' last meal.
