The Greek myth recounting the birth of the olive tree refers to a challenge between Athena and Poseidon, of which Zeus king of all the gods would be judge, to offer the most beautiful gift to men.

Poseidon, striking the ground with his trident, raised a powerful and swift horse, capable of winning all battles.

Athena, with her spear, struck a rock and brought forth from the earth a beautiful tree with silvery leaves, the first olive tree. The beautiful plant brightened the night, healed wounds and cured diseases, and also offered valuable nourishment, giving well-being and thus peace and health to all men who would cultivate it.

Zeus chose the beautiful tree and said, “This plant will protect a new city to be called Athens by you, my daughter. You gave men the olive tree and with it you gave light, nourishment and an eternal symbol of peace.”

Athena from that day became the patron goddess of the city of Athens. Some time later one of Poseidon’s sons tried to uproot Athena’s tree, but was injured in committing the sacrilegious act and died. The Athenians thus decided to build the Acropolis on that spot and guard the sacred olive tree night and day from soldiers.