Olives

Natural Masterpieces

In southern Italy, in Apulia, close to the Mediterranean Sea, lies one of the oldest olive-growing regions in the world. Here, in this rugged yet fertile landscape, grow some of the most impressive olive trees I have ever seen. Some of these trees are over 1,000 years old, numbered, and protected as historical monuments. They are not just trees—they are living memorials. Standing among these giants, with their bark marked by deep cracks and crevices, feels awe-inspiring. Each tree is a natural masterpiece, and it almost feels as if you can sense the history in the air.

The Greeks Brought the First Olives to Apulia

About 3,000 years ago, the first Greeks arrived via the ports of Bari and Brindisi, bringing their olive culture with them. Since then, this region has been inseparably linked to olive cultivation. Like oaks, olive trees can live for centuries, and caring for these ancient trees is a true art form. It’s fascinating to watch farmers pruning these majestic trees to keep them healthy and encourage new fruit. The harvest begins here in Italy in mid-November and lasts well into Advent.

Xylella – A Threat to Apulia’s Olive Culture

As resilient as these trees are, they face a significant threat: Xylella fastidiosa, a bacterium introduced a few years ago. The impact has been devastating—21 million olive trees have already succumbed to this disease. The bacterium spreads rapidly, killing entire groves. The loss of these trees is not only an economic disaster but also a cultural tragedy. Entire landscapes are changing, and with them, a piece of history is disappearing.

The Resilient Cellina di Nardò

There is hope, however. Certain varieties, like the Cellina di Nardò, show greater resistance to the disease. This ancient cultivar, native to the region, is renowned as a pressing olive. Its oil is extraordinary. When first cold-pressed, it shines a vivid green and offers a complex aroma: grassy, slightly sharp, yet soft and buttery on the palate. A true gem of Mediterranean cuisine and, in my opinion, one of the finest olive oils in the world!

A Sacred Tree Across Cultures

The olive tree is deeply rooted in nearly all major cultures and religions: in the Bible, Islam, and Judaism. For thousands of years, the olive tree has symbolized peace, health, and resilience. The olive oil derived from its fruit is not only a culinary treasure but also one of the healthiest foods nature provides.

Battling the Bacterium and Securing the Olive’s Future

Unfortunately, southern Italy’s efforts to introduce new agricultural ideas, such as coffee cultivation in response to climate change, likely brought the Xylella bacterium to Apulia. But Apulia’s olive farmers are not giving up. With new concepts and intensive research, they are fighting to save these ancient groves and continue the region’s olive-growing tradition.

Wild Heritage: The Olea Oleaster

In addition to cultivated olive trees, many wild olive species thrive in this region. Olea oleaster, a wild olive species, is particularly hardy and adaptable. I often use these plants as hedges, as they require little water and respond well to regular pruning. They are a living example of nature’s ability to adapt to extreme conditions while preserving its beauty.

A Living Example of Endurance and Adaptation

Apulia’s olive trees are more than just plants. They are symbols of survival and resilience in the face of adversity. In these times of climate change and global challenges, they remind us of the importance of preserving our natural treasures. These magnificent trees are a living part of human history, and we must do everything we can to protect them for future generations.