Olive and olive oil

The olive tree - symbol of the Mediterranean - was imported by the greek some 2500 years ago. It can live for several centuries and starts to give fruit at the age of eight, reaching full maturity by the age of twenty. Olives are traditionally gathered by hand or combs from November to January. The largest are conserved for eating whilst the smallest are pressed at the mill to give "virgin olive oil". 5 kg (11Pb) of olives makes 1 litre (1,8 pints) of oil.