Olla is a type of pottery vessel that has been used by various cultures for thousands of years. The term comes from the Spanish language and refers to a large, round-bottomed jar with two handles, typically made of clay or other ceramic materials. Olla jars have been found in many ancient civilizations including those of Mesoamerica, South America, North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. They were used for a variety of purposes such as cooking, storage, and transportation of liquids or foodstuffs. In modern times, the term "olla" is also used to refer to any large pot or container that holds liquid, especially one used in traditional Spanish cuisine for stewing meats or vegetables.