Numerous archaeological findings prove that people in the Eneolithic and Bronze Ages were able to cultivate wild grapes. As a result of archaeological excavations at the Namazgadepe monument, located a hundred kilometers east of Ashgabat, charcoal-turned grains of a small-fruited grape variety were found in one of the earthenware pot. The discovery of grape seeds in the cultural layer of such an important settlement indicates that grapes were used as food at least seven thousand years ago.
According to numerous sources, during the reign of the Parthian state, this cultivated crop was of great commercial importance. The Greek historian Strabo noted that dense grapevines were found in this place, that only two people could surround it, and that the vines were two cubits long. According to scientists, grapes were eaten in Parthia in the form of dried raisins, and they were also used for making jam. It is believed that the type of “Terbas” grapes grown today is also a type of grape grown in Parthia.
Currently, there are over one hundred and forty grape varieties in Turkmenistan, almost half of which are local grapes.
Rustam MAMMADOV,
chairman of the Bagtyyarlyk etrap Council of the city of Ashgabat
of the Youth Organization of Turkmenistan named after Magtymguly.
