The generous, long-lived olive tree is one of the characteristic features of the Tuscan countryside. It has inspired countless works of art and become a universal religious symbol of peace and goodwill. And it has left deep marks in our culture. This book tells the story of the olive tree from many angles. The chapters, each written by an outstanding specialist in a different field, cover topics such as botanical characteristics, cultivation techniques, and economic aspects of the olive-oil market, the olive tree in art and literature, and its various iconographic meanings through the ages. While primarily intended for scholars and olive-tree growers, this lavishly illustrated book will be also be a useful and fascinating reference work for the general reader, promoting a broader reflection on the landscape and the importance of natural resources. Texts by Cristina Acidini, Stefano Barzagli, Leonardo Casini, Giovanni Cherubini, Caterina Dinnella, Nicoletta Ferrucci, Piero Fiorino, Carlo Galoppini, Angelo Godini, Filiberto Loreti, Maria Grazia Mammuccini, Elettra Marone, Erminio Monteleone, Paolo Nanni, Claudio Peri, Piero Luigi Pisani Barbacciani, Maria Salemi, Luciano Santini, Franco Scaramuzzi, Giuliana Strambi, Gino Tellini, Enrico Triolo, and Marco Vieri.