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Stelmužė Oak: A Timeless Lithuanian Giant

Visit the Stelmužė Oak, Lithuania's oldest tree, a symbol of strength and a living monument to the country's rich history and enduring spirit.

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The Stelmužė Oak, located in the village of Stelmužė, Zarasai district, is Lithuania's oldest and most famous oak, and one of the oldest trees in Europe. Estimated to be between 1,500 and 2,000 years old, this ancient tree stands as a symbol of strength and endurance, deeply rooted in Lithuanian history and folklore.

A brief summary to Stelmužės ąžuolas

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the paths around the oak can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and intricate details of the ancient oak.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Stelmužė Manor and its historical buildings, including a unique wooden church.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Stelmužė Oak via public transport, begin by traveling to Zarasai. From major cities like Vilnius, you can take a bus to Zarasai Bus Station. Companies like Kautra operate buses on this route, with tickets costing approximately €6-€18 and the journey taking around 3 hours. Upon arrival at Zarasai Bus Station, transfer to a local bus heading towards Stelmužė. This local bus journey takes approximately 20 minutes. The bus will drop you off near the center of Stelmužė village, a short walk from the Stelmužė Oak.

  • Driving

    If driving to the Stelmužė Oak, navigate to Stelmužė village in the Zarasai district. From Vilnius, the drive is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, covering a distance of around 159 km. Roads in Lithuania are free for regular cars. Upon arrival in Stelmužė, follow local signs to the Stelmužė Oak. Parking is available near the site. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak tourist season.

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Discover more about Stelmužės ąžuolas

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.

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