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The Land of Greece
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Greece is not a rich farming land. There are many mountains and there is too little rain in the hot summers. Farming had to take place on the plains or on terraced hills. Barley was the main cereal crop because it needed less water than wheat. Olives and vines also grew well and often they were sold abroad in return for more grain. Sheep and goats grazed on the dry mountains.
Farmers plots were small. When a farmer died, his plot would be divided among his sons. One result was that the plots became even smaller and many Greeks could not survive on the land. They were forced to find new homes overseas.
Greece had very few metals, although there was iron. This could be used for agricultural tools and weapons.
(A) PLOUGHING
The soil was ploughed often to help it hold the rain. Sowing took place in December, with the harvest in May.
(B) VINEYARDS
Vines were grown on terraces cut into the hillsides.
(C) OLIVE GATHERING
Olive oil was one of the main exports of ancient Greece. The olive trees grew well in the dry soil and were often planted among the barley.
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Previous:
Back
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Book:
The Greeks
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Section:
Spotlight on Ancient Greeks
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Chapter:
The Land of Greece
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