The Olive Mill of Engares

The olive tree has long been a symbol of the entire Mediterranean, and not without reason. It is closely connected not only with the Mediterranean diet but also, one could say, with the very survival of the people of the region. Thus, these modest rural buildings, commonly known as olive mills, were once an inseparable part of everyday life in the countryside. On the island of Naxos, around 90 old olive mills have been recorded. Many of them, however, have not survived, while others have been converted into houses.

Most of these mills are found in central and mountainous Naxos, where olive oil production was more abundant. In the lowland areas of the island, the olive mill is called “try(g)os,” while in the mountainous villages it is referred to as “fabrica.” The olive mill of Engares is located at a central point in the village, along the main road, making it easily accessible. Based on the inscription on its press, it dates back at least to 1884, although according to local oral tradition, it is much older—possibly existing since the early 19th century.