CRETAN OLIVE OIL

History

Greeks were the first to cultivate the olive tree in about 2500 BC and during the Minoan Era in Crete olive oil served as the foundation of the Cretan economy. As has been shown by archaeological discoveries at Knossos from the Minoan Era, were treated olives and produce oil stored in earthenware jars and amphoras and are often exported to the islands of the Aegean and central Greece.

The Minoans used olive oil in religious ceremonies, in medicine, in sports and in daily life as a basic product for feeding, lighting and heating.

The olive tree and its blessed fruit from the past and until today are still symbols of knowledge, peace, health and strength. In recent years, the international medical and nutritionists recommend olive oil as an essential dietary nutrient for ensuring health and longevity.

Homer called it “Liquid gold” and Hippocrates the “Great healer”. An olive branch called “Kotinos”, was the golden medal awarded at the Ancient Olympic Games.