Stelmužė Oak: A Timeless Lithuanian Giant

The Stelmužė Oak is a remarkable natural monument, a silent witness to centuries of Lithuanian history. Situated in the former Stelmužė Manor park, this ancient oak is a common oak (Quercus robur L.) and is estimated to be between 1,500 and 2,000 years old. Its impressive size is a testament to its longevity, measuring 3.5 meters in diameter and 13 meters in girth at its widest part, with a height of 23 meters. Considered the thickest tree in Lithuania, the Stelmužė Oak holds a significant place in Lithuanian mythology and traditions. In pagan times, the oak was a sacred site where priests performed sacrifices to the gods. Over the centuries, the tree has been a silent observer of historical events, even serving as a hiding place for a Napoleonic soldier, whose skeleton and rifle were found within its hollow. The nearby 17th-century wooden church, built without the use of iron nails, further emphasizes the area's historical and cultural importance. Today, the Stelmužė Oak continues to inspire awe and reverence. Despite damage from infections and fungi, efforts have been made to protect and preserve this natural monument. The oak was nominated for Tree of the Year in 2017 and continues to be a source of national pride. Acorns from the Stelmužė Oak have been used to propagate new oaks, ensuring the legacy of this ancient tree for generations to come.