Poland’s Beech Reigns as European Tree of the Year 2024
Amidst a world full of division, anger, and heartbreak, it’s a solace to have something universally cherished that we can all gather around and appreciate.
The European Tree of the Year award offers precisely that, showcasing annually the most exceptional and breathtaking trees from across the continent. The winner for 2024 is none other than a venerable 200-year-old Polish beech affectionately dubbed ‘Heart of the Garden’. This grandiose tree, boasting an unusually stout trunk, finds its home at the center of the botanical garden of the University of Wroclaw, nestled in the Niemcza region of Poland.
Securing victory with an impressive 39,158 votes, it marks the third consecutive triumph for Polish trees in this esteemed competition.
The power of trees to unite “I haven’t encountered anyone who professed a dislike for trees,” remarks Adam Holub, project manager at Nadace Partnerstvi, a Czech environmental organization orchestrating the contest since its inception in 2011. “There are two symbols that effectively convey an important environmental message – trees and bees.”
Holub underscores that the primary objective of the competition is to foster the bond between local communities and their environment. “It’s also about providing a platform to elevate local voices to the European stage,” he elaborates. “We deem it vital for grassroots perspectives to permeate to the upper echelons.”
This exchange culminates at the awards ceremony, held last night at the European Parliament in Brussels, attended by numerous MEPs and representatives from the communities of each nominated tree. This year saw participation from 15 countries, showcasing trees steeped in history, from ancient olives to those in need of support to remain upright. Here are some noteworthy runners-up:
France’s majestic yet fragile beauty Claiming the second spot with 24,807 votes is France’s ‘The Weeping Beech of Bayeux’.
With a sprawling canopy spanning 40m, this 160-year-old tree relies on artificial support to maintain its stance. Yet, the endeavor is well worth it to preserve such a natural marvel.
Italy’s timeless sentinel Securing third place with 13,933 votes is ‘The Thousand-year-old Olive Tree of Luras’.
As its appellation suggests, this tree boasts a remarkable age, estimated to have graced Luras, a quaint town in Sardinia, for 3000-4000 years. It stands as a testament to resilience and continuity across epochs.
Portugal’s meticulously groomed gem Securing fourth place with 13,508 votes is Portugal’s contender ‘Camellia’. Exquisitely groomed, this tree adorns the centennial gardens of the ancient Villa Margaridi in Guimarães city.
Czech Republic’s enduring emblem Wrapping up the top five with 10,433 votes is the aptly named ‘Pear Tree in the Middle of a Field’ from the Czech Republic.
Its distinctive form bears the imprint of relentless westerly winds. As per the European Tree of the Year website, “it withstood collectivization during the former Czechoslovakia era, the amalgamation of fields, and the implementation of land reclamation.” How many of us can claim such resilience?
Author: DE
