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Cretan Olive Oil: From Ancient Medicine to Modern Mediterranean Tables

Friday, 19 June 2026/Source: Haniotika Nea/1 min read

Crete produces some of the finest olive oil in the world, and locals have celebrated it as a divine product since ancient times. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was among the first to document its health benefits, and modern science continues to confirm its nutritional value. Cretan extra virgin olive oil is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. Visitors will find it drizzled generously over salads, bread, and grilled vegetables at virtually every taverna across the island. For those wanting to take some home, local markets and dedicated olive oil shops across Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymno sell cold-pressed varieties from regional estates. Many farms in the Messara Plain and the Lasithi Plateau also offer tastings and tours, giving tourists a direct look at centuries-old production traditions still practiced today.

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