We are in the heart of olive growing country in Southern Spain and visited a wonderful museum.
Roman jar for storing oil.
Olives have been cultivated here since Roman times and some trees are very old yet still producing.
The olives are picked by spreading sheets under the trees then vigorously shaking them. Once harvested they are crushed.
The paste is put into a press and the olive oil is extracted. It is allowed to settle and the water is drained leaving the oil.
Oil is also extracted using centrifugal force.
Oils are categorized according to flavor, density and other factors.
Trimmed olive branches are woven into baskets.
Soap is made from the oil.
Olive wood is gorgeous when carved.
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