Story of Tunisian Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Mago & Eshmun

When speaking about the history of Tunisia’s agricultural traditions, Olive harvesting, and Olive Oil production, there are two major names to celebrate:

The first one is Mago, known in Tunisia as “Magon”. He is one of the most famous and ancient agronomists of humankind. Considered as “The father of agronomy”, Magon was at the center of the idea of agricultural structure and development, becoming thereafter the Carthaginian agronomist of the century. This famous historical figure revolutionized agriculture in his era and his writings are a living treasure.

One Tunisian prominent historian; Dr. Mhamed Hassine Fantar, mentions that when the Roman Empire invaded Carthage and destroyed the city, the only book they kept and preciously safeguarded was the Agricultural treaty Magon’s written in Punic language. He has become the main reference in history, thanks to his rare chronic which had been kept at the Apollo temple in Italy since the end of Rome’s third war against Carthage.

The second figure to commemorate is Eshmun, whose temple is situated on the hill of Byrsa-Carthage and is the Phoenician God of healing, who believed in the therapeutic use of olive oil and described it as “the one that heals”.

In addition to the above-mentioned figures, one important landmark testifying to the heritage of such pure produce in Tunisia is the oldest olive tree located in Cap Bon, Haouaria.  The tree’s roots cover a surface that approximates sixteen square meters and its trunk has a six-meter circumference. Its age overtakes 2500 years. Therefore, we dedicated one of our Olyfo’s brands to commemorate this tree which transcends the limits of time and acts as a symbol of longevity and resilience.

For a better idea about the 2500 Years of Tradition brand, please visit this LINK.

Manel Smaoui

OLYFO Copywriter