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GREEK EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL |
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origin of the olive tree and its precious fruit is deeply routed in the
ancient times even before the beginning of the human history. According
to findings of archeological excavations in various places in the
broader region of the Mediterranean basin, fossils of wild olive trees
are dated back to the Neolithic period, so we can estimate the existence
of the olive tree prior to the 10th millennium B.C.
According
to Greek Mythology, it is the goddess Athena that brought the olive tree
to Athens. The myth says that during a competition between Poseidon (god
of Sea) and Athena (goddess of virtue and wisdom) for who will give the
name to the city of Athens. Poseidon struck with his trident the rock of
Acropolis and a holy lake appeared, then Athena struck the rock of
Acropolis and an Olive tree appeared. The people chose the olive
tree because the olive tree could survive for centuries, and could
produce edible fruits, give a nutritious juice, the olive oil. This sacred tree which for ancient Greeks symbolized peace, prudence, and fertility, was considered to be an immaculate important source of nutrition for the human body. For this reason our ancestors were very interested in cultivating olive oil tree, as well as introducing and planting it in the colonies they had established around the Mediterranean basin. We , the modern Greeks, faithful to the tradition and attracted to the light, fresh nourishing food, love the olives which as an appetizer or as a supplement we consider them to be a necessary daily nutrient. The great nutritional value of the Greek olive, in conjunction with its light flavor and taste, has been established and recognized worldwide. Olives are a unique, pure, and natural product, essential for the modern healthy lifestyle since it is high in vitamins and other minerals. According to scientific research, Greece compared with other countries, has fewer cases of heart diseases while there is at the same time a higher consumption of olives and olive oil. Those two elements are the backbone of what constitutes the famous Mediterranean Nutrition. The olive is a complete and healthy food with a delicious taste and flavor. In addition, the olive oil is a necessary element of every meal, helping to provide a long and healthy life. Thus the olive is fairly considered as the " Queen of Nutrients" |
