Acta Scientiarum Polonorum
Silvarum Colendarum Ratio et Industria Lignaria

The production of charcoal played a key role in the technological development, economy, and cultural shaping of rural areas in Slovakia. This article provides an overview of the earliest evidence of charcoal production and use, from archaeological findings dating back to late antiquity through to organized production in the medieval and early modern periods. Particular attention is given to various charcoal burning techniques, their temporal evolution, and regional specifics (e.g., Slovak, German, and Italian methods). The analysis also focuses on the socio-economic significance of charcoal production, its links to metallurgy, forestry, and population migration. The conclusion highlights the enduring traces of charcoal heritage in the landscape and culture—from toponyms to educational reconstructions of traditional charcoal kilns. Charcoal production is presented as both a technological and cultural practice with potential for interdisciplinary research in forestry history, archaeology, ethnology, and sustainable natural resource use.