A20 - Bees and honey

East Mani has a long tradition in the production of honey. The variety of aromatic herbs and the good climate of the region have contributed in the production of a special honey with amber color and very distinct flavor. Honey was a taxed product in Mani: the producers at Passavas attributed the so-called “beehive tax” to the Ventian conquerors and later, the “melissiatiko” to the Turks. In the beginning of the 19th century, it seems that the people of Mani produced honey in such quantities that they were able to make exports inside and outside Greece (Crete, Aegean islands, Livorno). Honey is the only food that can be preserved forever!

Picture: Courtesy of Yiannis Vourlitis, “Image Bible of Mani”, Adouloti Mani Publications