250 - 900 CE
Symbolic and physical traces of cacao are left behind by the Mayans

During the classic period of the Mayan civilization (250-900 CE), abundant physical and symbolic traces of cacao and chocolate were left behind by the Mayan peoples. This includes vessels with identifiable residue of theobromine (a chemical present in the cacao plant) as well as scriptures mentioning cacao.

Source: Norton, M. (2008). Sacred gifts, profane, pleasures. Cornell University Press.

Drugs: Cacao (cocoa, chocolate)
Regions: South America
Topics: Cultural factors (social, religious, ritual)