Rome — The millennial olive tree in Cervera del Maestre, part of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) in the Sénia Territory, has been awarded the Best Monumental Olive Tree of Spain 2024 by the Spanish Association of Olive Municipalities. This award reinforces the historical and cultural value of the olive trees in this area, which is globally recognized for its dense concentration of millennial olive trees.

Recovered in 2019 thanks to the combined efforts of the Mancomunidad Taula del Sénia, the Sénia Territory Association, and the local city council, the olive tree has been reintegrated not only into agricultural production but also into the environmental, touristic, cultural, and sporting activities of the community.

The Sénia Territory is part of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS), designated in 2018, highlighting areas where biodiversity is preserved alongside sustainable agricultural techniques. The recognition of this olive tree underscores the importance of conserving these living relics, essential both for biodiversity and for the cultural heritage of the region.

This is the seventh award received by an olive tree from the Sénia Territory, underscoring the region as a leader in the conservation of olive heritage and the development of olive tourism, significantly contributing to the economic development and environmental sustainability at the junction of the Valencian Community, Catalonia, and Aragon.

About the Sénia Territory Millennial Olive Agricultural System

The “Sénia Territory” is located at the convergence of the Valencian Community, Catalonia, and Aragon. This area includes 27 Spanish municipalities, linked by their geography, history, language, and culture, and it boasts the highest concentration of millennial olive trees in the world.

The presence of 5,000 century-old olive trees makes this district a unique place that offers local communities numerous opportunities for rural development—including the recovery of ancient abandoned olive trees and their reintroduction into production for oil extraction—and greater cooperation among economic sectors, alongside “olive tourism” and other advantages.

The average annual production of olive oil in the area is estimated at over 12,000 tons. These income-generating activities have notably helped improve the living conditions of the local population. Additionally, the presence of different olive varieties in each grove enhances flower pollination. By preserving these varieties, biodiversity is also supported.

About GIAHS

The FAO's Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) program helps identify ways to mitigate the threats faced by farmers and to enhance the benefits derived from these systems.

Essential for achieving food security and livelihood sustainability, 86 sites in 26 countries have been officially designated as Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS), dynamic spaces where culture, biodiversity, and sustainable agricultural techniques coexist.

Related Information

Web del SIPAM GIAHS website - Sénia Territory Millennial Olive Agricultural System