Few trees have intertwined their history with that of humankind as deeply as the olive (Olea europaea). Rooted in the earth for millennia, the olive tree is more than just a crop in Jordan—it is identity, heritage, and sustenance.
Ancient Roots, Timeless Legacy
The origins of the olive tree fade into the depths of time, but many theories point to the region encompassing present-day Syria, Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan as its ancestral homeland. From here, this hardy species spread across the Mediterranean, becoming a defining emblem of its landscape and cultures.
Yet few places can claim to be home to olive trees that have stood the test of centuries quite like Jordan. Across its hills and valleys, ancient groves endure—some bearing witness to the Roman era. These living monuments, like the majestic olives of Al-Duwaireh near Madaba, as well as those in Ajloun, Jerash, and Salt, have stood for over 2,000 years, silent observers of empires rising and falling.
The presence of olive trees in Jordan, however, extends even further back. Archaeological excavations in the desert expanse of Wadi Rum, carried out by Jordanian and French teams, uncovered charred olive remains dating back more than 7,000 years. Millennia-old olive presses, found in sites across the country, confirm the tree’s enduring role in the daily life of civilizations that have flourished here.
A Symbol of Life and Tradition
For Jordanians, the olive tree is more than just an agricultural staple—it is a symbol woven into cultural and spiritual traditions. It appears in sacred texts across various religions and has been attributed meanings of peace, wisdom, purification, fertility, and resilience. Since ancient times, its fruit has been a source of sustenance, providing oil to light homes, warm families, nourish bodies, and heal ailments.
Today, olive groves dominate Jordan’s agricultural landscape, accounting for 80% of the country’s cultivated trees and supporting over 80,000 families. Indigenous varieties such as Nabali and Rasie have been cultivated for centuries, while the Souri variety, thriving in Ajloun and Jerash, is especially prized for its distinctive sensory profile.
Guardians of the Land and Future
Beyond shaping Jordan’s history and identity, olive trees play a crucial role in combating desertification. In a country where forests are scarce, olive groves serve as natural barriers against soil erosion, protecting fragile ecosystems during the rainy season. These resilient trees also offer green spaces for recreation and connection with nature, standing as oases in an arid landscape.
Jordan’s olive oil industry has flourished in recent decades, elevating its reputation on the international stage. Since 2000, the country has gained recognition for its high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Characterized by notes of ripe olives, hints of apple and sweet fruit, and a smooth, low-bitterness finish, Jordanian olive oil is highly valued in gourmet markets as well as in the wellness and cosmetic industries.
A Tradition Evolving with Time
In Jordan, olive oil is more than a product—it is a legacy passed from generation to generation. It reflects a land where the ancient and the modern coexist, where sacred traditions blend seamlessly with daily life. Each drop of this golden oil carries the story of a people who, through harvests and rituals, have preserved their identity in the humble yet enduring olive.
