How Olive Harvesting and Olive Oil Production Works: Step by Step

Posted 31.01.2025

Olive Harvesting on Brač island: A Tradition Connecting the Past and Present

The island of Brač is known not only for its beautiful beaches but also for traditional olive growing, which is deeply rooted in the history of this stunning Mediterranean region. In 2024, we had the opportunity to participate in a unique experience – olive harvesting with the Caglević family in their picturesque olive grove on the island of rač. This experience showcased not only the beauty of the magnificent olive groves but also the traditional methods that have been used on the this island for centuries to produce high-quality olive oil.

Traditional Olive Harvesting on Brač island

Brač is a place where the olive tree is not just an ordinary tree, but also a symbol of resilience, longevity, and tradition. Olives have been cultivated on this island for thousands of years and are an integral part of local culture and life. The Caglević family, who have been engaged in olive farming for several generations, employs traditional hand-picking methods. This harvesting technique is very gentle as it prevents damage to the fruit, which is crucial for producing quality oil.

After harvesting, the leaves and branches are sorted out from the fruit to ensure the purity of the olives. The olives are then placed in barrels of water, where they remain for about two weeks. This process has its reasoning – the water extracts the natural bitterness from the olives, giving the olive oil its distinctive taste and aroma. Afterward, the olives are removed from the water and left to dry in bags for about 3-4 days before they are ready for further processing in one of the local oil mills.

This method of harvesting and processing olives is traditional on the island of Brač and has been preserved since the past when there were not many options for quick processing of olives. Once, olives would wait for processing, and to prevent spoilage, they were placed in barrels or in the sea.

Today, many people have incorporated modern technology into harvesting and use mechanical harvesters. The process of olive oil production can vary; some producers process the olives within few hours after harvesting. As the saying goes, one hundred people, one hundred tastes. And that’s why the best part of olive harvesting is the tasting of olive oil. Olive oil from Brač is known for its intense green color and spicy, fruity flavor.

The Olive Tree – A Symbol of the Island of Brač

The olive tree is not just a tree that bears fruit for the island of Brač. It symbolizes resilience, as it can survive even in the harshest conditions and it represents a tradition that has been preserved on the island for centuries. The olive tree has always been important to the locals not only for agricultural production but also as a part of their everyday culture and life.

Olive Oil Museum

Therefore if you visit Brač be sure not to miss the Olive Oil Museum in the village of Škrip, where you can learn more about the history of olive oil on the island, the various methods of oil production and the significance of olives to the local population.

World Olive Picking Championship in Postira

In addition to traditional olive harvesting, Brač also hosts the World Olive Picking Championship every year, which is an unforgettable experience for all participants. This unique event takes place in the settlement of Postira, where teams from different countries come together to compete in two categories – hand-picking olives and a quiz about olive cultivation.

The teams from individual countries consist of four members- two women and two men. The competition day begins with hand-picking olives, where participants showcase their agility and speed in harvesting these precious fruits. Additionally, a quiz about olive cultivation is held, testing knowledge about the history of olive growing, olive oil production, and various techniques of olive cultivation.

The World Championship is not just about competition but also about celebrating the olive growing tradition. During the event, participants can enjoy olive oil tastings, participate in excursions, and enjoy entertaining evenings that allow them to better experience the beauty of Postira, the ethno-ecovillage Dol and the island of Brač itself.

Why Participate in Olive Harvesting in Brač?

Olive harvesting in Brač is not just about picking fruit – it’s an opportunity to connect with the culture, traditions and history of this beautiful island. Hand-picking olives remains a living tradition that has been preserved in many families for centuries. By participating in the harvest, you will not only gain new experiences and skills but also create unforgettable memories and forge a deeper connection with the local people.

Conclusion

Olive harvesting in Brač is much more than an agricultural activity. It is a lifestyle that demonstrates how tradition and modernity can harmoniously blend together. For anyone looking to immerse themselves in the true atmosphere of the island and experience something authentic, participating in olive harvesting and attending the World Olive Picking Championship will be an unforgettable experience. Brač offers you the opportunity to discover not only its natural beauty but also its rich culture that is reflected in every olive tree and every drop of olive oil.

More informatio: Olive Picking World Championship

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More information: Olive oil Museum