It still has the largest humanized forest on the planet. More than 66 million olive trees make up a unique landscape in the world that can only be seen in this Andalusian province whose customs, history, architecture, heritage and way of life is marked by the ancient culture of the olive grove and olive oil.

Olive oil stands apart from other vegetable oils as it is derived from a fruit—the olive—rather than a seed. The word «oil» originates from the Arabic term «az-zait,» meaning olive juice. Homer famously referred to it as «liquid gold,» and it has been a cornerstone of the Mediterranean Diet, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2012 for its health benefits.

Its use dates back thousands of years, likely beginning with Mediterranean civilizations such as the Romans, Greeks, and Phoenicians. In ancient Greece, olive trees, their fruit, and oil gained prominence, symbolizing immortality and even appearing on coins and tombs. Olive branches crowned Olympic participants, with some branches cut by a child using a pure gold knife—a tradition reflecting the olive’s cultural and ceremonial significance.

Olive oil also played a role in athletic and therapeutic practices, as competitors applied it before and after events for massages—a tradition that continues today. Religiously and mythologically, olive oil’s roots run deep; Greek myths credit Aristaeus with spreading its use and inventing the olive press.

The Roman Empire saw olive oil reach its peak influence, spreading throughout the Mediterranean, including Hispania (modern Spain), where the region began producing exceptional «liquid gold» that continues to define its legacy today.