The cultivation of olive trees and the production of olive oil has a long history, which began long before the events of the Black Rooster and Chianti Classico DOP Olive Oil. It is deeply intertwined with the tapestry of cultures, traditions, myths, and legends shared by the countries bordering the Mediterranean.
As early as ancient Greece, the cultivation of olive trees was widespread, and the plant was considered a symbol of peace and life. Several myths recount its origin.
According to one version it was Heracles Dactyl who planted a grove of wild olive trees on a hill dedicated to Cronus by Zeus. Heracles Dactyl, not to be confused with the much more famous Heracles, was one of the Dactyls. According to legend, these ancient deities were born from the fingers (hence their name) of Rhea, an ancient earth goddess. The oil, along with the intertwined branches of the trees planted by the god, later became the prize awarded to the victors of the Olympic Games.
Another myth tells that the first olive tree in the world sprang from Athena’s spear as a gift to the city of Athens, over which the goddess and Poseidon were vying for dominion. Fertile and abundant with fruit, the gift was well-received by the citizens, who accepted it and chose it as a symbol of peace, as it could be cultivated when the city was not at war. The olive tree was dedicated to the goddess, and its branches were carried during festivals in her honor and placed on temple altars to receive protection.
The olive tree also plays a role in the myth of Rome’s founding. According to tradition, the twins Romulus and Remus were born under an olive tree. From this perhaps stems the Roman custom of having two boys enter homes at dawn on the Calends of January, carrying olive branches and salt in their hands to wish happiness, health, and prosperity.
The presence of the olive tree in myths testifies to its importance for the peoples of the Mediterranean. Over the centuries, the cultivation of olive trees continued to expand and thrive throughout Italy, particularly in Tuscany.
It is not a legend that, thanks to the 1716 edict by Cosimo III de’ Medici, which outlined the boundaries of the Chianti Classico area, we can now enjoy Chianti Classico DOP Olive Oil on our tables today.