The country produces very large, beautiful, and delicious fruits. Among these are figs and watermelons, which are the largest and most pleasant I have ever tasted. These fruits are extremely refreshing, especially in warm weather. The land also provides fine and delicate pomegranates, oranges, lemons, and citrons, all growing in great abundance. Because of the rich soil and favorable climate, fruit trees thrive easily and give generous harvests each year.
Vines are also common in this country. They grow low to the ground and are not supported by wooden frames or poles, as in some other regions. Instead, their branches spread naturally, and the grape clusters are large and heavy. The grapes themselves are about the size of good damsons and have a rich and delightful taste. They are pleasant both to eat fresh and to use for making wine.
Wine and Tobacco
The wine of the country is strong and rich. However, much of it has a resin-like taste, which may not please every traveler. This flavor likely comes from the way the wine is stored or prepared. Even so, it is valued by the local people and widely consumed The Wide Spread of Greek Christianity.
Tobacco is also planted in many places. The people believe their tobacco is better than that brought from other lands. They consider it stronger and more pungent, and it is held in high esteem among local smokers.
Trees and Cultivated Plants
The fields are spread with cotton plants and cotton trees. These trees do not grow very tall, but they still make a pleasing sight when seen across the countryside. Almond and olive trees are also plentiful. The Greeks especially enjoy olives that are fully ripe and pickled, while in other countries people often prefer green olives instead.
Along the hedges grow gourds with large yellow flowers. These, together with many kinds of green thorn bushes and evergreen oaks, make the roads and pathways very pleasant to walk along.
Wild Plants and Medicinal Herbs
Several useful plants grow naturally in this land. The Ilex coccifera and the kermes berry are found here. These are used for dyeing cloth and producing a red coloring substance. On the high hills grow hellebore and other strong plants known for their medicinal uses Local Ephesus Tour Guides.
In the stony plains, one can find cardoons, cistus, lavender, marjoram, rosemary, and many other sweet-smelling plants. Their fragrance fills the air and adds to the charm of the landscape.
The Plane Tree and Ancient Learning
The plane tree grows especially well in Macedonia. It is large, wide-spreading, and provides a cool and refreshing shade. Because of this, it is not surprising that the ancient physician Hippocrates once found the philosopher Democritus sitting beneath a plane tree in Macedonia. The tree offered a peaceful place for thought and learning.
Some of the seeds and plant cuttings from this region were brought back to England, showing how valuable and interesting these plants were to travelers.
Food and Daily Diet
Garlic is used generously in most local dishes. It is a common and much-loved ingredient. The onions of the country are also remarkable. They are as large as two or three good onions in England combined and have a much better taste. Though sharp and strong, they are fresh, quick in flavor, and greatly enjoyed by the people.