It is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree growing to 10–15 m (30–50 ft) tall
Known for its heavy production of sweet, edible nuts. Chestnuts produce edible nuts rich in carbohydrates, and were traditionally a major staple food, especially in mountainous or marginal areas.

Domestication refers to the process by which humans began managing and selectively propagating chestnut trees for their nutritious seeds, wood, and other uses.

Other species of chestnut include:
European chestnut (Castanea sativa) Europe and western Asia. Domesticated in southern Europe;
Chinese chestnut (C. mollissima) East Asia;
Japanese chestnut (C. crenata) Used since the Jomon period. There is much evidence from storage pits and charred remains in ancient settlements; and,
American chestnut (C. dentata) Eastern North America.

Unlike grain crops, chestnut trees take years to mature, so domestication was slower
Trees and their buds were selected for larger, sweeter nuts, with thin shells, less tannic flavor, high yield and ease of harvest.

From 10,000 years ago, during the neolithic era. Chestnuts were a staple food, with a cultural role. Probably key in seasonal festivals and cuisine. Check them out with some more neolithic architecture today!

Bibliography: “Japanese chestnut – Encyclopedia of Life” (https://eol.org/pages/1