Museum of Industrial Olive Oil Production of Lesvos

The Museum of Industrial Olive Oil Production of Lesvos, known as “The People’s Machine,” is housed in the former community olive press of Agia Paraskevi, founded in 1911 by the residents and the Educational Brotherhood “Elpis.” Its creation was pioneering for its time, as an example of collective ownership and social solidarity, with revenues funding the community’s educational and social actions. The building, a characteristic example of industrial architecture, was restored and, since 2006, has operated as a museum under the Piraeus Bank Group Cultural Foundation. The exhibition presents the stages of olive oil production, the transition from steam power to diesel, and the social and economic importance of olive oil for the area. The museum is a living monument of Lesvos’ industrial heritage and a reference point for the history of the olive and the people of Agia Paraskevi.