Great Cork Oak

Category: Nature > Cork Oak

District: Évora > Arraiolos > Sobreira Grande > Herdade da Comenda Grande

Location

Sobreira Grande is located on Herdade da Comenda Grande, a characteristic area of the municipality of Arraiolos, in Alentejo. This place is part of the typical 'montado' landscape, dominated by the presence of cork oaks and holm oaks. The tree is close to the locality of Sobreira Grande, in a serene rural environment that invites the observation of nature and its surroundings.

The Centenarian Cork Oak

This remarkable cork oak is an exceptionally large and long-lived specimen, with an estimated age of about 250 years. Its canopy is particularly impressive due to the diameter it reaches, and its trunk has a considerable perimeter. Sobreira Grande stands out in the landscape with its majestic stature, witnessing the passage of time in this Alentejo territory.

Symbol of the Landscape and the Community

More than just an ancient tree, Sobreira Grande is a symbol of resilience and resistance, representing the strong character of the Alentejo 'montado' and the people connected to this ecosystem. It is a beloved and cherished tree by the local community, considered a true landmark. Its generous shade offers shelter on hot days, strengthening the connection between the tree and life on the estate.

National and European Recognition

The exceptional value of this tree was publicly recognized when Sobreira Grande was elected Tree of the Year in Portugal in 2022. This award, decided by public vote, reflects the public's appreciation for the tree and its history. Its distinction led it to represent Portugal in the European Tree of the Year competition, where it competed with other notable specimens from the continent, highlighting the importance of ancient trees due to their connection to culture, local history, and the landscape.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt