The relationship between the Cretans and the olive tree comes from the Minoan years, as it is proven by the archaeological finds of Knossos. Cretan in their everyday life are still directly connected with the olive tree, its fruits and olive oil. It is not just an agricultural product, it is the symbol of Cretan civilization.
The palace at Zakros features impressive olive harvest frescoes, vases, and whole olives dating from the 3rd millennium BC .
1/3 of the domestic olive oil production is from Crete, since olive trees cover 65% of Crete's agricultural area, and 90% of it belongs to the category of "extra virgin olive oil".

Consumption of raw olive oil is proven to be a major source of health and longevity since the natural olive juice contains monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E that helps to increase the good cholesterol (HDL) by shielding the function of the heart and other vital organs, prolonging its youthful body and protecting the skin from sunlight.