Routes of the Olive Tree

Routes of the Olive Tree is a nonprofit civil company based in Kalamata, Greece, and founded in 2003. Its mission is to highlight and promote the Mediterranean culture of the olive for the benefit of olive-producing regions. To achieve this, the organization designs and implements cultural routes and a variety of activities aimed at exploring and showcasing the cultural heritage of these areas.

Networking and team structure

The success of Routes of the Olive Tree relies primarily on its network of members, supporters, and collaborators who form a strong chain of solidarity. They help sustain the organization's efforts and ensure the long-term viability of its mission.
The OTRoutes Network includes 140 members, friends, and partners: universities, chambers of commerce, research centers, NGOs, small and medium-sized enterprises, institutions focused on culture and development, as well as individuals such as olive growers, experts in culture, art, and history, and researchers from over 20 countries.
The organization's governance and the management of the OTRoutes Network are overseen by three bodies:

The Regional Council includes representatives from 9 countries: Greece, Italy, Slovenia, France, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Tunisia, and Lebanon. The Executive Office is composed of the Executive Director and specialized associates responsible for:

International Relations
Member Network Management
European and National Programs
Action Planning and Implementation
IT and New Technologies
Multimedia
Communication and Information
Secretariat
Financial and Administrative Support

An International Scientific Advisory Committee, consisting of distinguished professionals from various fields, contributes to the design and execution of the organization's activities and objectives.

Objectives

Promote olive-related culture for the benefit of local economies
Create synergies between olive heritage, tourism, and sustainable development
Document the olive heritage in all producing regions and promote it through cultural actions
Build a "bridge" among Mediterranean countries and beyond, with the olive as a symbol of peace, friendship, and prosperity
Encourage intercultural dialogue, business cooperation, and knowledge sharing

International recognition

The Routes of the Olive Tree initiative, inspired by a deep respect for a tree that symbolizes peace and prosperity and a drive for connection and dialogue, was officially recognized by UNESCO in 2003 as a World Cultural Route for Intercultural Dialogue & Sustainable Development. In 2005, it was also designated a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe.