Olive oil’s history is as rich as its flavor! It has journeyed from ancient empires to modern kitchens, winning hearts (and stomachs) along the way.

Ancient Origins: The Liquid Gold of the Gods

Olive oil’s story begins around 6,000 years ago in the Mediterranean, where olive trees were first cultivated. The ancient Greeks revered it as “liquid gold.” But it wasn’t just a cooking staple — olive oil was used for everything from skin care to lighting lamps in temples. Greek athletes even slathered it on before competing to shine in both spirit and skin!

A Roman Feast

The Romans took olive oil to the next level, mastering the art of pressing and classifying different types based on quality. Olive oil became a key ingredient in their grand feasts, a symbol of wealth, and even used as currency! Fun fact: they stored it in massive amphorae (ceramic jars), some of which still exist today with traces of ancient olive oil inside!

Medieval Medicine

In the Middle Ages, olive oil wasn’t just for cooking — it was a prized medicine. Doctors used it in ointments to heal wounds, and monks pressed it for use in religious ceremonies. During this time, olive oil production spread across Europe, particularly in Spain, Italy, and France, where it became integral to daily life and healing rituals.

The Renaissance Revival

By the Renaissance, olive oil had regained its culinary crown, finding a home in the kitchens of the world’s finest chefs. Italian and Spanish cuisine flourished with olive oil as the star ingredient, elevating humble dishes like bread and vegetables into gourmet delights. Olive oil also made its way into beauty routines, and the Mediterranean glow became the envy of many.

From Local Delicacy to Global Superfood

Fast-forward to the 20th century, when olive oil truly went global. Its health benefits — high in antioxidants and heart-healthy fats — earned it the title of a superfood. The Mediterranean diet, with olive oil at its core, became the model for healthy living. What was once a luxury became a pantry staple worldwide.

Olive Oil Today: From Artisan to Everyday

In modern times, olive oil comes in countless varieties, from extra virgin to cold-pressed to infused with herbs and spices. It’s not just in salads and pastas but also in skincare products, hair treatments, and even artisanal cocktails! Olive oil tasting has become as sophisticated as wine tasting, with connoisseurs debating over the finest flavor profiles.

Fun Facts About Olive Oil’s Evolution:

• Cleopatra reportedly used olive oil in her beauty regime, which might explain her legendary glow.

• In ancient Greece, wars were fought over control of olive groves because they were so valuable.

• Michelangelo, the renowned Renaissance artist, reportedly used olive oil to fuel his lamps while painting the Sistine Chapel

• Studies show that people who use olive oil regularly have lower rates of heart disease — maybe that’s why it’s called liquid gold!

• During World War II, Winston Churchill was gifted a ton of olive oil by the Greek government as a token of appreciation for his support of Greece against the Axis powers.

• On the Greek island of Crete, there is a famous olive tree called the Olive Tree of Vouves, believed to be between 2,000 and 3,000 years old. Amazingly, it still produces olives to this day!

• Olive oil was used in early soap-making and still is today, as olive oil-based soaps are incredibly gentle on the skin.

From sacred ceremonies to skincare, from an ancient elixir to a modern superfood, olive oil has withstood the test of time and flavor. It continues to be a beloved symbol of health, luxury, and delicious simplicity.