Among the oldest fruits consumed by humans, figs originated in the Anatolian region of Turkey. Believed by some historians to be the first domesticated crop, fig trees have been discovered during excavations of Turkish Neolithic sites that date back to 5,000 BC. With rise of the Roman Empire, the cultivation of figs spread throughout the Mediterranean region.
Figs, representing fertility, peace and prosperity, are symbolically important in many religions. The fig tree appears repeatedly in throughout the Bible. The prophet Mohammed reportedly identified the fig as the one fruit he would most wish to see in paradise.
Today, Turkey is the largest producer of figs in the world.
Jason B Graham
Turkish Cuisine
Produce
Fruit
Fig | Incir