59. Sacred Lettuce

There is evidence to suggest that lettuce had a special place in ancient Egyptian culture, but its role was not as a mere salad ingredient. Rather, some ancient Egyptians believed that lettuce had aphrodisiac properties, and it was associated with the god of fertility, Min.

According to a text found at the Edfu Temple, Min was said to have a great love for lettuce, which was believed to help him perform tirelessly. Ramses III is depicted on the relief of his funerary temple taking part in a harvest festival honoring the god of fertility, Min. As part of the festival, a procession of priests carries tall, erect stalks of lettuce that are believed to symbolize male sexuality.