Chocolate Found In 3,100 Year-old Central American Pottery

Research by archaeologists of Cornell University has found that chocolate was used as far back as 3,100 years. In pottery dug up in Central America, they discovered traces of a chemical compound found only in the cacao plant. Cacao is the source of chocolate. The pottery was for holding liquids.

It seems that the Mesoamericans of that time were making cacao drinks, fermented from the pulp, rather than the chocolaty drink made from the seeds. These drinks were served on important occasions.

It seems they had a better idea than us how to use chocolate.

Nicarguan Handpainted Ceramic Pottery and Handicraft

The pottery is made by Nicaraguan villagers, mostly women, using fuel-efficient kilns.

The beautifully made pieces reflect traditional design. The work of these villagers is assisted by Potters for Peace, a US based non-profit network.

The selection available here in "Moroccan Ceramic" offers a small but good cross-section of the pottery produced as well as some handicraft. There is also a selection of ceramics and tableware from Peru, Morocco and Turkey.