The publication of the Guidebook of the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil (MEEL) marks the completion of a project that has j special significance for the Piraeus Bank Group Cultural Foundation.

MEEL claims, from a certain aspect, a worldwide uniqueness: by presenting ancient oil-mills, which are displayed in restored working condition, restored surviving machinery, large mobile models and digital applications, it documents the development of the technology of oil production in Greece and in the wider Mediterranean area through the ages, from pre-historic times to the 20th century.

At the same time, both the permanent exhibition and the Multiple Uses Hall function as reference points for the cultural life of the city of Sparta, re-stimulating the local society with vital elements of its traditional identity and hosting innovative events, which render the Museum an attractive venue for old and new visitors alike.

In this way the Piraeus Bank Group Cultural Foundation faithfully serves its aim of constant cultural and social involvement, by realizing initiatives and actions in support of the Greek countryside.

To the visitors, the Guidebook of the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil essentially contributes to their deeper understanding of the subject. At the same time, however, it is accompanying and supplementing the MEEL activities file, providing a valuable tool to the groups of schoolchildren who visit the Museum.

It is our aim to have this Guidebook as a starting point for a wide range of specialized editions, scientific treatises, cultural maps and educational material, so that the scope of both the Museum and the Foundation will become broader.

(από τον πρόλογο του βιβλίου)