The Cardial Ware culture refers to a prehistoric culture that emerged around 5000 BCE in the western Mediterranean region, particularly in areas like Spain and Italy. This culture is characterized by its distinctive pottery, which features cardial decoration—patterns created by pressing a shell into the clay. The pottery often includes bowls and storage vessels, indicating a settled lifestyle and the importance of food storage. The Cardial Ware people were primarily engaged in agriculture and fishing, relying on the rich resources of their coastal environments. They lived in small communities and practiced trade with neighboring cultures, contributing to the spread of their unique pottery style across the Mediterranean.