The Cases of Torre Velha (Castro De Avelãs) and Mós (Torre De Moncorvo)

Calculus deposits of individuals unearthed from Torre Velha (TVCA) and Mós (MOTM), Necropolis, were analyzed to obtain insights about diet, crop cultivation, and plant use. All samples (n = 11) revealed micro-remains, including starch grains, pollen grains, fungal spores, and sclerenchyma fibers. Starch grains were detected in all studied specimens, belonging mostly to wheat and rye, with fewer to barley and various pulses, with fava beans being the most relevant. Mós samples also showed evidence of millets and pollen grains. These include genera with known medicinal properties, suggesting their intentional use for medical purposes. Fungal spores were isolated from samples of both sites, with higher yield in Mós. A major diversity of micro-remains was obtained in Mós individuals, although any differences must be interpreted with caution. The present work is the first to provide insights into the medieval diet in the Northeast region of Portugal through dental calculus analysis and, when combined with written sources, it contributes to the knowledge of the cultural heritage of the Middle Age diets.