DESCRIPTION:

From ancient times until today, the pomegranate has been associated with fertility and well-being by the peoples of the Mediterranean. The large number of seeds found within its skin, as well as its nourishing and pharmaceutical properties, associated the pomegranate with fertility and reproduction. In Greek mythology, apart from Aphrodite, the pomegranate was associated with the goddesses Demeter and Hera, who were also worshipped as goddesses of fertility of the land, of animals, and of people.

According to legend, the first pomegranate tree in Cyprus was planted by Aphrodite, who was considered the goddess of fertility and of the power of nature to reproduce by itself. Works of art from ancient Cyprus testify to the sacred status of the pomegranate seed. Female figurines representing pilgrims to sanctuaries hold a pomegranate in one hand, while pomegranates are also depicted on gold jewellery.