In a remarkable display of craftsmanship and tradition, the world’s oldest machineless factory for olive soap production is thriving in Gazian Tep, Turkey. This unique facility, where the art of soap making has been preserved for centuries, is currently operating at full capacity, producing millions of olive soaps using time-honored techniques that have stood the test of time.
Workers at the factory are engaged in a meticulous process known as saponification, which begins with a massive boiler fueled by olive pummus—a byproduct of olive oil extraction. The soap mixture, a blend of olive oil and caustic soda, is constantly stirred to achieve the perfect consistency. As the mixture is poured onto the ground and left to set, teams of s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁ed artisans employ traditional wooden tools to shape and compress the soap, showcasing a level of precision that requires years of training.
As November rolls in, the factory gears up for its busiest season, continuing production until April. Each block of soap is stamped with the company logo and carefully packed by hand, ensuring that every product is ready for the market. This factory not only preserves a vital cultural heritage but also stands as a beacon of sustainable production in an age increasingly dominated by automation.
The urgency of this story lies in the factory’s commitment to keeping ancient traditions alive amidst a rapidly changing world. With a growing global demand for artisanal products, this factory is not just a relic of the past; it’s a thriving hub of activity that champions craftsmanship over machinery. As these artisans work tirelessly, they remind us of the beauty found in manual labor and the importance of preserving cultural practices for future generations.
