The Greek cities of Piraeus and Athens have been ranked as Europe's second and third most authentic food destinations, respectively, placing ahead of traditional gastronomic giants from Italy and France in a new study.

Hellenic Organization of Cultural Resources Development (ODAP) in partnership with "The Master Miller", has launched "Charisma," an extraordinary collection of four extra virgin olive oils crafted from olive trees growing at Greece's most iconic archaeological sites: Ancient Olympia, Delphi, Ancient Messini, and the Acropolis of Athens.

A Vision Rooted in Cultural Heritage

At the 2021 launch of the collection's first products, Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni articulated the initiative's profound vision: "Following the opening of selected archaeological sites and museums to gastronomic events showcasing local primary production, ODAP is launching a new initiative: producing agri-food products that originate from the archaeological sites themselves and are directly linked to their natural and cultural landscape... With distinctive packaging, this olive oil becomes a unique cultural artifact—an exceptional souvenir for visitors, both Greek and international, to our archaeological sites and museums."

Varieties that Whisper Stories of Centuries

Traditional local varieties—including Koroneiki from Olympia and Kalamata olives—contribute their authentic signatures to each expression, while PDO and PGI certifications guarantee origin and quality.

Through meticulous cultivation and traditional cold-press methods, the essence of Greece's most significant archaeological landscapes is captured in bottles that deliver an authentic taste of the nation's cultural legacy.

Konstantinos Papadopoulos, Founder & CEO of The Master Miller, explains: "The olive groves surrounding these sacred sites have witnessed millennia of history, and their fruit carries that legacy. These are not merely premium olive oils—they are liquid monuments to Greek heritage, bottling the spirit of places that shaped Western civilization."

International Recognition

The collection's flagship product, "Charisma of Zeus," has already garnered international acclaim, winning gold medals at prestigious competitions in New York and Athens in 2024 and 2025. Its high polyphenol content and exceptional organoleptic profile make it equally suited to everyday cooking and the most refined gastronomic creations.

More Than a Culinary Product

The "Charisma" Archaeological Sites Collection transforms each meal into a cultural experience—every dish into a journey through time, where culture itself becomes a flavor to be savored. It represents a pioneering fusion of Greece's archaeological treasures with its renowned tradition of olive oil excellence.

AVAILABILITY

The "Charisma" Archaeological Sites Collection is available exclusively at “ Hellenic Heritage ” museum shops located in archaeological sites and museums across Greece and will soon be available online at hhstore.gr .

Product Details:

• Format: 250ml bottles

• Price: € 18

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Hellenic Organization of Cultural Resources Development (ODAP)
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: www.odap.gr

The area of Trikala, with its rich attractions and unparalleled natural landscape, is a unique travel destination with a multitude of options for leisure, sightseeing and activities. But those who find themselves in the area have the opportunity to get to know one more special side of it, its unique flavors.

The wide variety of raw materials available in the area, the cultural influences it received due to its geographical location and the diversity of its soil gave the wider area of Trikala its own nutritional and culinary identity. The rich agricultural and livestock products of the region and the local processing, with respect for tradition as well as know-how, offer the quality and distinct identity of the raw materials. The people of Trikala used to always use these special raw materials in their kitchen and they continue to do so today, with passion and love, offering the special Trikala dishes.

Today in Trikala, gastronomy has its own distinct brand name "Meteorisimo", through which the culinary culture is connected with local products and modern gastronomy. Meteorisimo was born, on the initiative of the Chamber of Trikala and its president Vassilis Giagiakou with the aim of presenting and disseminating Trikala gastronomy and locally produced products.

The culinary wealth of Trikala, born in the roots of Meteora and the mountains, is highlighted through the certified collective mark and the actions of "Meteorisimo". The recording and presentation of traditional Trikaline dishes with a centuries-old tradition, the unique Monastic cuisine of Meteora, the special ingredients and the method of their preparation become known to the general public.

"Meteorisimo", has its own business network with the participation of professionals in the prefecture. This includes, following relevant certification, local producers, retail stores and restaurants with special markings in their catalogs. The visitor here can find and enjoy the flavors and aromas of "Meteorisimo".

On every route in the prefecture, in Kalambaka and Meteora, in the town of Trikala in its mountain villages, in the plain, you have the opportunity to enjoy home-made food, well-cooked local meats, Trikala sausage and Trikala pies, traditional sweets, excellent quality wines and local tsipouro as well as monastic dishes that follow the tradition of the monks of Meteora.

Follow the route through the place, time and soul of the people who sculpted the relief of the Trikala region's culinary identity on the plate by combining the pure ingredients and products of the Trikala land with passion and tradition. Visit the prefecture of Trikala for an unforgettable culinary tourism experience.

For more information and seasonal flavors visit the website meteorisimo.com