Mary Evans Picture Library / EDWIN WALLACE / Everett

The life of King Midas, 8th century BC ruler of ancient Phrygia (in modern day Turkey), is full of myths and legends  not least that fable of a monarch who turned a few too many things (and people) into gold. But his death offered historians a real glimpse into the past or, more precisely, of dinner time. After excavating Midas's tomb in 1957, archaeologists discovered the remains of a vast meal, what was likely the king's funerary feast. Three giant 33-gallon cauldrons that likely bore a mixture of wine and mead were accompanied by 100 bronze cups  suggesting each guest drank at least a gallon of alcohol. The booze washed down what scientists and paleobotanists imagine was a glorious repast of goat stews, grilled lamb and hearty concoctions of pulses and lentils. Evidently they were so full that when the eating was done  and the dead king interred  no one bothered to do the dishes.

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