Olive Oil

The olive tree has been the most authentic symbol of Monte San Vito for centuries, an anchor of identity and a source of prosperity for its community. It is thanks to this noble plant that the local economy gained momentum in past centuries, leaving a tangible trace in the presence of a historic olive mill from the 1600s, an extraordinary testament to ancient oil-making expertise, and one of the best-preserved in Italy.

Olive cultivation in Monte San Vito dates back to ancient times. Archaeological excavations and historical sources indicate that the Romans already appreciated the oil from this area.

During the Middle Ages, olive oil production continued to flourish. Local monasteries and abbeys, in particular, played a crucial role in cultivating the olive groves and producing oil. In the Renaissance, the oil of Monte San Vito was known and appreciated in noble courts.

The olive groves stretch across the gentle hills surrounding the village, in a privileged position where the mild microclimate, the influence of the sea, and the specific soil and climate conditions create the ideal environment for excellent olive growing. Here, the centuries-old saplings of “Raggia,” a native cultivar, yield an extra virgin olive oil of rare finesse, with a fruity aroma, a balanced palate, and delicate notes of almond that enhance its typical character.

More than a product, the oil of Monte San Vito is a heritage of culture and nature, a living link between the land, history, and the skilled work of the people of the Marches region.