Bernard O'Shea: The ‘C’ in Christmas refers to the vitamin

From ancient Saturnalia to turkey tales, exploring the nutritional evolution of Christmas dinner

Bernard O'Shea. Photograph Moya Nolan

The roots of Christmas dinner extend deep into ancient pagan festivities, notably Rome’s opulent Saturnalia, characterised by lavish banquets and societal role reversals. 

Medieval Christmas feasts, held within castle halls, featured star attractions like boar’s head, venison, and swan, complemented by aromatic, spiced dishes.