Lesvos, also known as Lesbos, is a captivating Greek island which located in the northeastern Aegean Sea. Renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Lesvos offers a diverse range of experiences to its visitors. The island boasts stunning landscapes, from picturesque coastal villages to lush olive groves and rolling hills.
Among its sights, there is the Museum of Industrial Olive Oil Production. The Museum of Industrial Olive-Oil Production of Lesvos showcases the transformation of olive-oil production in Greece due to the introduction of mechanical motion. It highlights the region's significant contributions to the production process with great sensitivity. The museum's aim is to preserve and present our industrial heritage in olive-oil production, placing it within the broader context of architecture, society, and culture of that period.
Located in the historic communal olive press of Aghia Paraskevi on Lesvos Island, the museum features meticulously restored buildings and mechanical equipment. Here, you can observe the functioning of the equipment and the evolution of the factory from steam power to diesel engine operation. Additionally, you will gain insight into the daily life at the "People's Machine."
Inside the main building, you will become familiar with the fundamental stages of olive-oil production: crushing the olives, compressing the olive pulp, and separating the olive oil from the water. There is also a flour mill on display, which operated in conjunction with the olive press during the summer months.
In the old storage rooms dedicated to olives, you will discover the complete work cycle related to olive oil production. This includes the cultivation and care of the olive tree, the production of sub-products such as olive pomace, kernel oil, and soap, as well as the marketing and distribution of olive oil within Greece and abroad. Furthermore, you will gain insights into the various professions and activities associated with olive oil production. Lastly, you will learn about the history of the communal olive press of Aghia Paraskevi, known as the "People's Machine," and its significant impact on the region's social fabric and economic structures during its pioneering days of communal ownership.
Young visitors will experience the nostalgic sound of the factory's whistle, summoning workers to their tasks. They can observe the machines in action and explore digital presentations showcasing the different stages of olive-oil production, namely "From the Olive to Oil" and "From Water to Water."
Children can engage with the multimedia application called "The People's Machine," where they can learn about the functioning of the factory's machinery in an interactive way. They will also gain a better understanding of how the quality of olive oil is assessed by participating in an acidimetry experiment.
The museum organizes educational programs, games, and activities tailored for schools and group visits. One such program, "From the Olive to Olive Oil," provides children with a comprehensive understanding of the olive-oil production process at the museum.
Source: The Museum of Industrial Olive-Oil Production of Lesvos