Olive oil was a cornerstone of the Roman economy, offering numerous employment opportunities in a lucrative industry. Farmers cultivated vast olive groves across the empire, providing a stable source of income for many.
Laborers toiled in the fields, carefully tending to the olive trees throughout the year. Pruning, harvesting, and pressing the olives required skilled hands and dedication.
Olive oil was a cornerstone of the Roman economy
The pressing process was a crucial step in olive oil production. Workers operated large stone mills to crush the olives into a paste. This paste was then spread onto fiber mats and pressed to extract the precious oil.
Skilled artisans crafted amphorae, the clay vessels used to store and transport olive oil. These containers were in high demand, driving employment in pottery workshops.
Traders and merchants played a vital role in the olive oil trade, transporting the product across the empire. They navigated perilous seas and treacherous land routes to deliver olive oil to distant markets.
In Rome, olive oil fueled the lamps that lit the streets and homes of the city. Lamp-makers found steady work in crafting these essential sources of light.
Olive oil also had significant cultural and religious importance in Roman society. It was used in religious ceremonies and offerings to the gods, further driving demand for the product.
Overall, the olive oil industry provided employment for a diverse range of people in ancient Rome, from farmers and laborers to artisans and merchants. Its profitability and importance to Roman daily life ensured its status as a thriving business sector. It also served multiple purposes in ancient Rome, beyond its culinary uses.