Why was salt worth as much as gold?

From the interior they [the Phoenicians] obtained salt, which was highly prized in ancient times, the exchange rate being equal to gold. Roman soldiers (and probably Carthaginians too) were paid in part in salt, from which comes the old saying “worth your salt”.

Did the Romans get paid in salt?

Being so valuable, soldiers in the Roman army were sometimes paid with salt instead of money. Their monthly allowance was called “salarium” (“sal” being the Latin word for salt). This Latin root can be recognized in the French word “salaire” — and it eventually made it into the English language as the word “salary.”

Who mined salt in ancient times?

In the Ancient Roman Empire Humans made salt ponds on the edge of the Mediterranean and mined it in the Alps. For salt production, the Romans were not inventive, but they borrowed any useful techniques from the peoples they conquered. Romans salted their fresh foods typically in two ways.

Is salt really worth its weight in gold?

You’ve probably heard the oft-quoted fun fact: “Back in ancient times, salt was worth its weight in gold!” But is it true? The answer is a definite “maybe,” but only in very specific places under very specific circumstances. Regardless of how true this claim is or isn’t, though, the history associated with it is pretty interesting.

What was salt traded for gold in the Middle Ages?

In West Africa during the Medieval period, salt was traded for gold. This may seem astonishing as salt is a cheap commodity in today’s society. It may be added that salt is easily available today which was not the case in ancient times. In the past, salt was difficult to obtain in certain parts of the world.

Why is it called a salary of salt?

During Roman times, salt was worth its weight in gold and soldiers were sometimes paid in salt, hence the word “salary” During Roman times, salt was worth its weight in gold and soldiers were sometimes paid in salt, hence the word “salary” Aug 22, 2016 Ian Harvey Sodium chloride–what is it?

When and where were gold and salt considered of equal value?

I have often heard that gold and salt were sometimes considered of equal value. When and where did that occur? During the era when the Phoenicians ruled the Mediterranean sea and surrounding territories (cerca 1550 – 300 B.C.), salt was indeed a highly precious commodity.