Ever present in the area of Lake Garda, the olive began to play a key role in the 7th century AD, as evidenced by an edict from 643 that imposed monetary penalties on those caught damaging olive plants in the villages around Garda.
As early as the Middle Ages, Garda oil stood out for its high quality and economic value compared to oils from other origins and was used with excellent results both in nutrition and in medicine. The use of food oil was reserved for a few, as in the High Middle Ages “4-6 kg of Garda oil was worth as much as a very large pig”.
In the Renaissance, human activity contributed to defining the characteristic features of the agricultural landscape. In this era, the hills began to be redesigned with elaborate arrangements, which became true “terraced” constructions, so much so that it was called, as early as 1968, “Riviera degli Ulivi”.
The fame of Garda oil has been steadily increasing; today, DOP Garda oil ranks among the top 5 Italian DOP olive oil producers.
The olives of Garda grow in a rich territory, between lakes and mountains.
Olivum Bardolino: a weekend dedicated to the gold of Garda with nine oil mills showcasing their products, from extra virgin oil to oil in cosmetics. There will be opportunities to participate in guided tastings and walks in the area.