Olive Oil: The Gold of Umbria

Greenways Italy
Aug 18
3 min read

"There is a treasure in the heart of Italy that gleams brighter than any crown— Umbrian extra virgin olive oil."

a man holding a bunch of fresh olives — Freshly harvested olives

Flowing in vibrant gold and green from ancient stone mills, it is not merely a condiment but a symbol of culinary excellence, tradition, and sustainability. In recent years, Umbrian olive oil has captured the attention of connoisseurs and chefs alike, recognized for its distinctive qualities and rising acclaim on the global stage.

A Product of Excellence: Umbrian EVOO

a bottle of olive oil on the table — Olive oil has golden hues

Umbrian extra virgin olive oil has earned the prestigious DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) certification, guaranteeing that every step of its production—from harvesting to bottling—takes place entirely within the region and adheres to century-old techniques passed down through generations.

This distinction underscores the close connection between the oil's flavor profile and the region's geography, culture, and expertise.

What truly sets it apart is its sensory profile.

Expect a fruity and intense taste

a waiter pouring olive oil — Olive Oil Tasting

With balanced notes of bitterness and a gentle spiciness, complemented by aromas of fresh grass, almond, and artichoke.

Across its diverse terroirs, olive oils reveal distinct character boards, shaped by the unique blend of Moraiolo, Leccino, Frantoio, San Felice, and Dolce Agogia varieties.

The secret lies in Umbria’s environment: permeable, water-scarce soils, cold winters, warm summers, and pronounced temperature swings in autumn—all factors that encourage slow olive maturation, low acidity, and high polyphenol content.

Year after year, Umbrian producers earn their status among Italy’s finest. In 2024, certified DOP olive oil production reached around 686,000 liters, consolidating the region’s position as a reference for lovers of bold, expressive extravirgin oils.

From Antiquity to Modern Pioneering

"Umbrian olive cultivation is not a new phenomenon. "

Its roots reach back to the Etruscans, and by the 1st century B.C., Umbrian oil was rivaling those from Iberia and Dalmatia in reputation and demand Centuries later, innovation continues to build on tradition.

In the heart of Trevi, within the former convent of San Francesco, lies the Museum of Olive Civilization—a place where history, art, and agriculture converge. Here, visitors can trace the story of the olive tree from antiquity to modern times through ancient tools, artworks, and documents. More than a museum, it is a gateway into Umbria’s deepest identity, connecting the land’s living olive groves with the cultural heritage that has shaped them for centuries.

Landscape as Heritage: The Olive Belt

"With formal candidacy for UNESCO World Heritage status"

A medieval castle between olives trees and fog — Trevi: The Olive Belt

The setting for all this culinary and cultural richness is the Olive Belt of Assisi-Trevi - Spoleto—a living work of historical, agricultural, and aesthetic harmony. Stretching over 9,000 hectares and home to nearly 1.5 million olive trees, this vast area embodies the culmination of centuries of human-nature synergy.

With formal candidacy for UNESCO World Heritage status, the Olive Belt stands as a powerful symbol of sustainable heritage, where terraces, dry-stone walls, and traditional olive groves intermingle with medieval villages and sweeping views.

The Living Gold on Your Table

"From the bottle to the table, Umbrian extra virgin olive oil brings more than flavor—it brings story, terroir, and tradition."

Four bruschetta with chopped tomatoes — Bruschetta: fresh tomatoes and olive oil

Pour it over piping hot bruschetta and taste the rhythm of Umbria. Drizzle it on seasonal vegetables or pasta, and experience elegance colored with intensity. This olive oil is more than a product—it is an invitation to live Umbria through its most authentic expression.

Experience the Gold of Umbria with Greenways—immerse yourself in its landscapes, engage with passionate producers, and carry home not just a bottle of oil, but the essence of heritage centuries in the making.

A biker riding between olives trees — Gold Of Spello Bike Tour

Plan Your Olive Experience in Umbria

Taste the true gold of Umbria where it is born—among centuries-old groves, ancient mills, and passionate producers. Join one of our exclusive Olive Oil Tours, or let us design a tailor-made journey crafted just for you. With Greenways, every drop of oil becomes a story, and every story becomes your memory of Umbria.

GOLD OF SPELLO

TAILOR MADE