The History of Olive Oil & Italy

Over the years, olive oil has been used for medicinal, cosmetic and culinary purposes. While the scientific research that supports its beneficial properties has only been discovered in recent years, the benefits have been enjoyed in Italy and around the world for centuries.

Ancient Roots

The precise birthplace of the olive tree remains a mystery; however, the oldest fossilized tree was discovered in Greece and dates back to 37,000 B.C. Despite its ancient roots, the cultivation of olive trees and the production of olive oil did not move from Greece to Italy until the middle of 7th century B.C.

Early Cultivation

It was the Etruscans, who lived in western Italy near modern Tuscany, that began harvesting olives and using their oil for lighting, ointments and cosmetics.

Historical Uses

Olive oil was first used in Italy for its medicinal properties such as to stop dandruff, strengthen hair, soften skin, whiten teeth and even to prevent and treat acne.

Symbolism

As Italians mastered the cultivation of olive trees and the production of oil, the tree's importance in Italian society and culture became more apparent as the olive leaf became prominent in ancient Italian artwork. The olive tree is still used today as a symbol of strength, youth, peace and abundance.

Modern Italy

Today there are more than 30 types of olive trees growing in Italy, a country which produces more than three million tons of olives each year.