Catalogul izvoarelor sărate din judetul Buzău (studiu etno-arheologic)
Catalogue of salt springs in the county of Buzau (ethno-archaeological study)

Summary/Abstract: Enthnographic and archaeological research in Buzau dealing with this theme began in the 1990’s and were a consequence of the richness of salt and ease of exploitation in numerous hilly and mountainous areas. Technically, the interest was sprung by ethnographical studies. The field reserch brought forward many aspects of economical life, tradition and even a mythology of salt. Salt is one of the main minerals eaten and used by people. The human body consists of 80% salty water. This is a logical proof that human existence (especially in ancient ages, beginning with the Neolithic – the age in which man starts cooking his food) has been influenced by salt resources and most importantly by salty springs that were easier to exploit than salt layers in the ground. When feeding on fruit, plants, roots and raw meat, the Natrium chloride amount came from the content of the food. The taming of animals and growing of plants brought about great changes in every day life and human existence. Man had to find food for himself and his animals. This is probably when man became preoccupied with obtaining salt, either from rock or water, and this is most likely the time when salt trade begins. We are most hopeful that future research in the Buzau area confirms the direct link between ancient civilisations and salt resources.

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