Agriculture was central in the economy of ancient Greece, as it comprised the bulk of production and exchange. Nearly 80% of the population was involved in this activity.
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👉 Agriculture in ancient Greece in the context of Stari Grad Plain
The Stari Grad Plain, near the town of Stari Grad on the island of Hvar, Croatia, is an agricultural landscape that was set up by the ancient Greek colonists in the 4th century BC, and remains in use. The plain is the largest agricultural area on any of the Adriatic islands, and is remarkably fertile due to Ice Age loess deposition.
This landscape is almost entirely preserved from its original form. The ancient layout has been preserved by careful maintenance of the stone walls over 24 centuries, along with the stone shelters (known locally as trims), and the water collection system. The same crops, mainly grapes and olives, are still grown in the fields, and the site is also a natural reserve. The site is a valuable example of the ancient Greek system of agriculture, and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
In this Dossier
Agriculture in ancient Greece in the context of Economy of ancient Greece
The economy of ancient Greece was dominated by agricultural production and exchange. Most agricultural production was carried out in the countryside, while the cities or poleis were net consumers. There was enough fertile soil and winter rainfall on the ancient Greek mainland for agricultural production, despite the fact that the region is relatively mountainous and has generally small rivers.
Agricultural trade was of particular importance. The impact of limited crop production was somewhat offset by Greece's paramount location, as its position in the Mediterranean gave its provinces control over some of Egypt's most crucial seaports and trade routes. Beginning in the 6th century BCE, trade craftsmanship and commerce, principally maritime, became pivotal aspects of Greek economic output.