The history of olive oil goes back at least 6,000 years. The first evidence of olive cultivation comes from the Middle East, from where it spread to Greece, Rome and throughout the Mediterranean region.
In ancient Rome, olive oil was an integral part of daily life — in food, lighting, cosmetics and religious rituals. Roman legions brought olive trees everywhere they conquered.
Today, olive oil is a global product, but at its heart it always remains Mediterranean. In Italy, olive tree symbolism is deeply rooted in culture, art and identity.