Olive oil in Massa Lubrense

A journey through olive groves, and secular stories.

Imagine walking through the hills of Massa Lubrense between October and November. The leaves falling. A road painted in an autumn color. The olive trees. This is the magic that comes to life every year, starting in October: the olive harvest. Come here, and discover the olive oil of Massa Lubrense. However, before we get to this, it would be right to make a little historical excursus to better understand where this activity came from.

Olive oil has a thousand-year history, enriched by myths and legends that have consolidated its symbolic and practical value. Since ancient times, the olive tree has been revered as an emblem of spirituality, fertility and rebirth. In addition, Its connection with the sacred is often represented by the image of the dove carrying in its beak a twig of olive, a sign of peace and hope. The oil, in addition to its food use, was and is still used for cosmetic purposes, a custom that has roots in ancient times. Another legend attributes to oil a close link with the divine, reinforcing its role in the collective imagination as a gift of nature and gods.

The history of olive oil in Massa Lubrense.

This link with the divine has been handed down to us from numerous historical sources and is still perpetuated today in many Italian cities. A significant example is represented by Massa Lubrense, where the ancient Temple of Athena – Minerva on Punta Campanella stood. Here, pilgrims bought olive oil to offer it as a tribute to the goddess, thus consolidating the sacred role of this product in local culture. This allows us to understand how olive oil is rooted in our history, a story that often remains little known.

Olive oil is not only a product of daily use, but a cultural and spiritual symbol that has passed through the centuries. Throughout Italy, numerous old and modern mills are still dedicated to the production of this precious oil, perpetuating a tradition that has its roots in the past and continues to be an integral part of our identity.

Particularities of the olive oil of Massa Lubrense.

The oil of Massa Lubrense is particularly renowned as “Extra Virgin Oil DOP Sorrento Peninsula”. The acronym “DOP” stands for “Protected Designation of Origin” and guarantees that this oil is a typical Italian product of the highest quality, whose origin and characteristics are closely linked to the production territory. As a result, this certification not only attests to the excellent quality of the product, but also serves to protect it from counterfeiting and imitations, ensuring that the oil complies with strict production standards and preserves its authentic and unmistakable qualities, linked to the unique landscape and centuries-old tradition of the Sorrentine Peninsula.

The cultivation of olive trees in this region has deep roots, dating back to the time of Magna Graecia, as witnessed by the presence of the ancient Temple of Athena at Punta Campanella, already mentioned above.

The olive oil production process begins with the harvesting of olives, which takes place between October and December. In Massa Lubrense, olive harvesting is a special moment, a true art that unites generations. For the citizens of Massa Lubrense, this activity is not only a job, but a ritual that celebrates community, nature and deep connection with their land.

Benefits of Massa Lubrense oil

The Extra Virgin Oil PDO Penisola Sorrentina is distinguished by its sweet and delicate taste, accompanied by a slightly spicy aftertaste, which enhances the aromatic herbs of the area.

Extra virgin olive oil from Massa Lubrense contains polyphenols, which help fight free radicals and reduce cell aging. It has anti-inflammatory effects and facilitates digestion. Many also use it in cosmetics, because it moisturizes the skin and helps fight aging. Finally, it strengthens the immune system.