MYRTLE- the forgotten treasure of the Meditarranean
- Sanja Metković
- Jan 21
- 2 min read
Symbol of youth, beauty and innocence
December in Konavle is abundant with citrus fruits, but also with a special Mediterranean gem - myrtle. Myrtus communis L. is a plant typical of the entire Mediterranean.
It captivates with its snow-white flowers in late spring and dark berries in early autumn.
While the lemon and orange on our estate refresh us with their juices and fragrance, myrtle delights us with its beauty. Myrtle has been valued in Konavle for its medicinal properties since ancient times. Teas, tinctures and oils are prepared from its leaves and fruits to treat various diseases. Myrtle is also an integral part of Konavle cuisine. It is added to dishes, and it is used to make brandies, liqueurs and marmalades.
This introduction inspired me to write a blog post and tell the story of the myrtle that grows on our estate. It is a symbol of beauty, purity, innocence and youth.
It is a reminder that myrtle has been with us since the beginning of civilization.
Greek mythology says that myrtle was the sacred tree of the goddess Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. According to legend, Aphrodite's lover Adonis died while hunting, and out of grief, she turned drops of his blood into myrtle. Since then, myrtle has become a symbol of love, loss, and eternal life.
Roman customs dictate that in ancient Rome, brides wore wreaths of myrtle as a symbol of chastity and fertility. It was believed that myrtle protects against evil spells and brings happiness in marriage.
In Christianity, myrtle is associated with the Virgin Mary and is a symbol of purity and innocence. It is often used in church ceremonies and decorations.
The Roman specialty "myrtidanum", a wine made from myrtle berries, is still produced in Italy today. Two myrtle liqueurs are made in Sardinia - 'Mirto Rosso' made from red berries and 'Mirto Bianco' made from light berries, which in its aroma is more reminiscent of myrtle. Delicious and beneficial - only divine myrtle can be like that.
The myrtle on our property has become a hardy, wild shrub that conquers terrain where many other plants dare not grow. It is much more than its wonderfully aromatic and aesthetically pleasing leaves and almost unreal beautiful white flowers.
Our connection with it is found in a cup of the finest liqueur whose fruits are currently being harvested by Nikša and Lucija, carefully choosing the best branches with the largest fruits.
Come and enjoy a glass of this healing elixir!
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