Prior to the tourism industry in Corfu, one of the largest income sources for corfiots came from high quality Olive Oil, and Olive based products. This week’s post will take a deeper look at Olive trees, and oil production on the aptly-nicknamed ‘Green Island of Corfu’, and lastly, how those who are interested can learn more from a real life Olive Oil Expert!
Where it all started…
The history of the Olive trees, and their journey as such an integral part of Greek history, dates back as far as 60,000 BC, but it was not until the Classical period (7th – 3rd century BC) that Olive trees and it’s derivatives were recognised and researched for it’s nutritional and medicinal properties. Hippocrates was the first to recognise olive oils affinity for easing ailments, such as muscle aches, and ulcers. Whereas, Solon, the first legislator saw to it that a law was enacted to protect the olive tree.
Moving on in history, during the Byzantine Medieval period, (325 AD) the importance of olive oil production flourished, and became an integral part of the rituals in the Orthodox Christian Church. The high quality olives were used as a healthy component in the medieval diet, and the lower quality olives were made into olive oil soaps, and lamps for candles, to light homes and churches across greece. The Eastern Roman Empire established the production of considerable amounts of olive oil, soon becoming the largest exporter throughout this period.
During the venetian occupation in 15th century Corfu, the development of mass soap production in Europe, formed a new demand for olive oil, which was then exported to France, and Italy. The area was pushed to cultivate new olive trees, rather than other crops and food, that kept the island self-sufficient. Of course, this amounted to huge profits for the traders, but put the villagers and landworkers at a disadvantage during this time.
Olive Cultivation Today!
Today, Corfu is home to approximately 4 million Olive trees, with some dating back over 500 years. Nets are placed underneath the trees to catch ripe fallen olives, these are then gathered every so often to use to form the products we know and love. Most families will own some olive trees, and from this will make their own olive oil for the coming year. A single olive tree can usually produce around 3 – 3.5 litres of quality olive oil per year.
Elaion – Experience the Roots of Corfu.
Elaion Small Group Tours offer an opportunity to spend the morning learning many amazing facts about Olive oil cultivation, such as how olive soap is made. Those on the tour are able to sample Olive Oil, and join the olive oil expert on a guided tour through the foothills of Mount Pantokrator, identifying olives and delighting in a meze of quality corfiot products – an unforgettable experience for all. For more information, head to their website: https://www.elaionprivatetours.com/
Bookings can be made directly with Elaion, or through San Stefano Travel.
San Stefano Travel Blog 