Olive

A biblical sign of reconciliation – olive trees planted by popes in the Vatican Gardens commemorate meetings held for peace.

An evergreen tree with narrow, silvery leaves and a gnarled trunk, which can live for more than a thousand years. It copes superbly with drought and heat, and olive oil is pressed from its fruit. In biblical tradition the olive branch is a sign of reconciliation – the dove brought one to Noah after the Flood. On Palm Sunday in Italy olive branches are blessed instead of palms, and olive oil is used for anointing in the liturgy.

Significance in the country

For the Holy See the olive tree is a symbol of peace: popes plant olives during meetings with heads of state and religious leaders, and the gardens include an olive planted in 2014 by Pope Francis together with the presidents of Israel and Palestine.

Where it grows

In the Vatican Gardens, including a small olive grove and as commemorative trees along the paths.

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