Olive Tree Cultivation: Sicily Is the Ideal Island. The New “Favola” Line

The olive tree is an element that strongly characterizes Mediterranean vegetation. It is present throughout Italy, with the exception of Piedmont and Valle d’Aosta, and differs from region to region in terms of landscapes and cultivation systems. This diversity is the first and main characteristic of our country’s olive-growing landscapes.

It is an evergreen plant, resistant to drought and weather events, and it has great environmental importance: the photosynthesis carried out by olive trees also depends on their age. As one of the longest-living tree species, the olive tree plays a fundamental role for the environment.

Sicily, because of its geographical position, its nature, and its history, has seen the olive tree become a central element of its landscape. Since Greek times — the olive tree was already widespread in the 8th century BC — it has been considered a sacred tree, because of its fruits and the oil obtained from them, as well as a symbol of peace, strength, resilience, and purification. Uprooting one could even lead to lifelong exile, and still today it is not allowed without the proper permits.

Wreaths made with olive branches were used to identify the winners of competitions held during religious festivals, and they were also a symbol of marriage. Over time, this sacred aspect was also adopted by Christianity: olive oil has always been used in the celebration of many rites.

We have dedicated our new Favola label — a new line of extra virgin olive oil with organic certification — to the majesty of the olive tree. The protagonist is an olive tree trunk, with its imposing presence, its veins, and its many cavities, which reveal its longevity and fascinating complexity.

Favola was born from the awareness that oil is a good and simple product to enjoy, but a complex one to produce, requiring care and attention at every stage of production.

Our island has unique environmental features, such as its climate and, in part, its soils, which represent a kind of “magic” that is difficult to imitate or export elsewhere, making Sicily the ideal kingdom for the olive tree.

Sicilian extra virgin olive oils are characterized by a particular identity, especially in their aromas, which is highly appreciated by both local and international consumers. Once tasted, they remain fascinated by them and continue to use them faithfully in everyday life.