The exhibition has been produced by Dubrovnik Museums and Ethnographic museum Split.
Over the millennia of olive cultivation along the Dalmatian coast and on the islands, the periods of prosperity and decay of olive growing have been alternating, depending on the prevailing social conditions. However, this durable, modest and long lasting fruit has permanently been at man’s disposal as a source of food, heat and light. Olive fruit has been used for food, its wood as building material and firewood, its leaves as animal feed and oil for food, spice, medicine and lighting since ancient times. Olive branches and oil also play an important role in various folk beliefs and customs, as well as in Christian religious ceremonies.
The exhibition presents the survey of olive cultivars, their harvesting, transport and storage before the extraction of olive oil in small quantities or in olive processing plants, along with customs and beliefs related to olives. The emphasis has been put on the formerly common practices in olive growing and oil production. Although they differ greatly from the contemporary ones, the tradition of olive cultivation and processing rests on them.
The exhibition will be open until 22nd of October 2018.
Exhibition created by:Ida Jakšić and Ivana Vuković
Exhibition curated by Barbara Margaretić