But what if this humble yet essential part of humanity’s everyday life, the lowly oven, finds its roots in the ancient Greek world? He is credited with the invention of the bakery oven and possibly the first commercial chain of bakeries in history. The ancient Greek oven that Thearion used—and possibly invented—allowed for more even and efficient baking compared to what had been available until then. Imagine how important this ancient Greek oven innovation is. Related: The Fascinating Art of Ancient Greek Bread Baking and Its 72 Varieties