650-year-old Polish oak is elected Tree of the Year

Centennial trees are uniquely beautiful: in addition to their grandeur, they “witnessed” historical events. Since 2011, a European competition has elected the Tree of the Year, and in 2017 the victory went to a 650-year-old Polish oak tree. He received 17, 597 votes, surpassing 16, 203 from a tree of the same type located in the United Kingdom.

The competition featured trees from 16 countries and was eventually won by Oak Józef - yes, the Polish oak tree even has a name! The centenary is part of the country's history, so much so that it appeared on a money bill in the year 1934. It also served as a shelter for two Jewish brothers fleeing Nazi persecution during World War II.

According to historians, the interior of the tree quietly accommodated the brothers, with the top even serving as a watchtower. Their fate is unknown after the end of the conflict, but it is known that they survived the war.

Check out other pictures of Oak Józef:

Other finalists

Brimmon Oak

Secondly, the oak is 500 years old and is located in the United Kingdom.

Tilia

In third place was this 800-year-old Tilia, located in the Czech Republic, between a mansion and an old cemetery.

Ceron Park Saman

This rain tree, also called the chorona tree, located on an island in France, is 300 years old and is a warrior: it has survived hurricanes that hit the place!

Sycamore Gap

This sycamore became famous for appearing in the 1991 movie "Robin Hood, " and is now the most photographed attraction in the Northumberland National Park in the United Kingdom. He closes the Top 5.

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