Photo of the week – olives and oaks of the Sabina
Typical scene of the Sabine hills, olive groves bordered by oak trees. The Sabina has been famous for its olive oil since Roman times, and olive groves still dominate the landscape today.
In the background you can just make out the shape of Farfa Abbey on the mountain.
Villa degli Armeni – private rental villa near Rome
Video: A Sabina olive mill
I recently came across a treasure trove of promotional videos for the Sabine Hills, made by Viaggio in Sabina. Some really well made, (and subtitled in English!) videos showcasing the region, its sights, festivals and food.
With the olive oil harvest just about finishing up here in the Sabina I thought it would be a good moment to show how a typical olive farm and press works. The Sabina has been famous since Roman times for its olive oil and this is still the main agricultural production here. Sabina oil was the first olive oil in Italy to receive DOP status – meaning the name Sabina Olive Oil is protected and the production regulated to very high standards.
The olives are grown on small family farms scattered over the rolling hills. In November and December people get together for the olive harvest and then take the olives straight to local pressing mills.
If you’re interested in finding out more about Sabina olive oil why not take an olive oil tour with local expert Johnny Madge.
Villa degli Armeni – villa rental near Rome
