World olive day: its origins in the Valencian Community

For 2 years, UNESCO has celebrated World Olive Day. This recognition is due to the fact that the conference believes that the olive tree not only contributes to the economic, social and sustainable development of citizens, but also because its oil is considered a source of health and good nutrition.

For this reason, in today's post, we will learn about the impact of the olive industry at a national level and, in addition, we will delve into the tradition in the Valencian Community. But first, it is worth detailing the origins of the olive tree:

In reality, there is no historical document that clearly certifies where the first olive tree was grown. The only reference we have is that the olive tree was revered as a sacred tree in Egyptian, Greek and Roman cultures. Some research suggests that the oldest olive tree is probably found in the village of AlWalaja, in Bethlehem. These studies suggest that the tree is between 4,000 and 5,000 years old.

Economic impact of the olive industry in Spain

According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Spain is internationally the country with the largest area and production of olive oil. Our production represents 60% of the production of the European Union and 45% of the world. It is worth mentioning that Spain is the world's leading exporter of olive oil: among the agri-food products exported from Spain, it ranks fourth, only behind citrus fruits, wine and pork. It is estimated that the care and cultivation of the olive tree ranks fourth among the most exported products.

Olive-growing tradition Valencian Community

As you know, from 9 Oliveres we are not only committed to the fight against climate change but also to the dissemination of Valencian culture, therefore, celebrating World Olive Tree Day, below, we will tell you more about the Valencian olive tradition: at In the Valencian Community autochthonous varieties with unique flavors are cultivated in our territory. Our oil is protected by the D.O.P oil of the Valencian Community.

The extra virgin olive oil backed by this certification is obtained from the following varieties: Manzanilla Villalonga, Blanqueta, Farga, Serrana de Espadán, Morruda, Cornicabra, Alfafarenca, Changlot Real, Rojal, Canetera, Nana, Arbequina, Empeltre, Cuquillo, Sollana , Callosina, Llumeta, Millarenca, Borriolenca. At 9 Oliveres you can try oils from Alicante varieties (Blanqueta and Alfafarenca). In the future we plan to have Changlot Real oils.

At 9 Oliveres we take advantage of this day to highlight the importance of the olive industry in Spain and to remember how vital the consumption of native oils is for the survival of the dissemination of Valencian gastronomy.