Brewing in Babylon-4000 B.C. In this country, rightfully called the cradle of civilization, we find the art of brewing well developed as early as 4200 B.C. The beginning of beer production must therefore date back thousands of years prior to that time. Two grains, barley and emmer, were raised in this agricultural country and used in the production of beer. Brewing was conducted by master brewers in establishments of large proportion, and was an industry of major importance.