OIL : the symbolic wealth of the olive tree and olive oil
For centuries, the olive tree and olive oil have left their mark on human life. The olive tree is the legendary tree marked by an extraordinary symbolism in Mediterranean societies. Olive oil is the oldest edible oil and bears witness to the great richness of Provençal and Mediterranean cuisine.
Olive oil enjoys a particular prestige with the vine and wheat. Olive oil has a sacred dimension and maintains a special relationship between the divine and the profane.
Olive oil and rituals.
Olive oil is present in the offerings and sacrifices of Greek and Roman cults. It is used as fuel for the great seven-branched candlestick and the lights of the Tabernacle and the Temple in Jerusalem. Olive oil produces a large flame with little smoke. In the Jewish tradition, olive oil symbolizes the divine presence.
In the biblical text, olive oil is the main element of the anointing. It will be used in royal coronations and in the sacrament of baptism. The olive tree and its olive oil will have an essential place in the Church of the 4th century. Saint Cyril of Jerusalem will consider baptism as “participation in the fruits of the fruitful olive tree which is Jesus Christ”.
Olive oil is presented in the Quran as “the oil of a blessed tree, the olive tree which is neither of the east nor of the west”.
Olive oil has long symbolized light and knowledge as it was a source of illumination.
The symbolic diversity of the olive tree
The olive tree symbol of peace, reconciliation and benevolence
In the Old Testament, after the flood, the dove that Noah had released into the sky returned to him holding an olive branch in its beak, a sign that the waters had withdrawn from the land. Since the olive branch symbolizes peace, reconciliation and benevolence.
The artisanal olive oils produced in the estates and mills of the South Luberon are real essentials!
Terroir & know-how
Symbol of Provence, heat and sun, it is the star of the Luberon: the olive.
In all its forms, you will enjoy this fruit during an aperitif, or drizzled with oil in a salad or in cooking, it is succulent!
During your stay in the Luberon, be sure to visit the olive-growing estates.
This centuries-old tradition reaches out to you.
You will explore an olive grove, savor a tasting, discover tailor-made workshops to discover the mysteries of this delicious delicacy.
Of course, a culinary shopping session will allow you to bring home the Olive Oils of AOP Provence.
From the “extra virgin” olive oil from the shop at “L’Ombre de l’Olivier”, to the olive oil served on the table at the Élysée de la Bastide du Laval, it will satisfy the more connoisseurs among you.
