EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
The three images above are ideograms depicting the olive tree (left), its crop (centre) and olive oil (right). These ideograms were found in Linear A and B tablets and are proof that the Minoans used olive oil and olives as part of their diet as far back as 1800 BC.
Click on the tabs below to read about the olive tree in Greek mythology, the origins of the olive tree, the olive tree in Cretan and Greek history, olive oil categories and Cretan olive oil: The best olive oil in the world - Nutritional value, Quality and Consumption.
The olive tree in Greek mythology
According to Greek mythology, the daughter of Zeus, Athena, Goddess of Wisdom who was born on the shores of river Triton in Crete, planted the first olive tree on the Sacred Rock of the Acropolis therefore offering it to humanity as a symbol of peace, wisdom and prosperity. By doing so, she won the contest against God Poseidon and had the most powerful ancient Greek city named "Athena" (Athens) in her honour. At the same time she also became the protector of the city.
The olive tree in Greek mythology
According to Greek mythology, the daughter of Zeus, Athena, Goddess of Wisdom who was born on the shores of river Triton in Crete, planted the first olive tree on the Sacred Rock of the Acropolis therefore offering it to humanity as a symbol of peace, wisdom and prosperity. By doing so, she won the contest against God Poseidon and had the most powerful ancient Greek city named "Athena" (Athens) in her honour. At the same time she also became the protector of the city.