It is believed that olive trees came from Syria, Lebanon or even Israel, but some also argue that it may have come from Asia Minor, Lower Egypt or Ethiopia.
The Olea oleaster (Oleae europaea, var. sylvestris) – the wild olive – probably spread naturally, perhaps carried by migratory birds (thrushes, among others), until seeds found a climate that could foster their development.

“the Mediterranean dies where the olive tree doesn’t reach”

Over the centuries, the olive tree has been a symbol of victory and peace, progress, abundance, wisdom, justice and fertility. Champions were crowned with its branches and, with the oil of their fruits, darkness was driven away from homes, delicacies were spiced up, malaises were healed, and athletes were massaged. It was the Holy Tree!
The domestication of olive trees began during the Palaeolithic and Neolithic, that is to say, 10 000 to 3000 years a. C., possibly in Mesopotamia, from where it moved to Egypt (2000 years BC) and then to the islands of Asia Minor and to Continental Greece (1800 years BC).

José Gouveia

 

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Discover Évora, the Olive tree and Olive Oil, from Évora Olive Hotel, a themed boutique hotel inspired by Olive Oil.