The olive, known by the botanical name Olea europaea, meaning "European olive", is a species of small tree in the family
Oleaceae, found traditionally in the Mediterranean Basin. The olive's fruit, also called the olive, is of major agricultural importance in the Mediterranean region as the source
of olive oil; it is one of the core ingredients in Mediterranean cuisine.
Olive oil has long been considered sacred and holy. The olive branch was often a symbol of abundance, glory, and peace.
