Unveil Spain’s ancient wonders through its rich folklore.

Spain is home to some of the world’s oldest trees, living monuments that have witnessed centuries of history unfold. Among these natural wonders is the El Abuelo olive tree, located in the village of Martí, in the Sierra del Maestrazgo. This ancient tree, with a trunk circumference of more than 10 meters and a height of 8 meters, is over 2000 years old. Its gnarled branches and thick trunk tell stories of Roman and Moorish times, standing as a testament to the resilience of nature. Another ancient olive tree can be found in the town of Canet lo Roig, in the Maestrat region. Known as the Millenary Olive Tree, it is over 1700 years old and boasts a trunk circumference of 9 meters. This tree is not only a historical landmark but also a symbol of the deep-rooted olive-growing tradition in the region. Olive trees of similar age can also be found in the villages of Arion and Cervol, near Traiguera. Moving on to another species, the La Carrasca de Lecina is an ancient holm oak located in the village of Lecina, in the Sobrarbe region of Aragón. This tree is over a thousand years old and has a height of 16 meters, with a trunk circumference of 7 meters. Local folklore tells of witches gathering under its branches for their sabbaths, adding a mystical dimension to this already impressive tree. In Madrid, the Pino de San Roque in the village of Navacerrada is a monumental pine tree that has stood for over 300 years. This tree, with a height of 30 meters and a trunk circumference of 4 meters, is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. It is a symbol of resilience, having survived various environmental challenges over the centuries. The Canary Islands are home to some of the oldest and most unique trees in Spain. The El Drago Milenario, or the Thousand-Year-Old Dragon Tree, is located in the town of Icod de los Vinos on the island of Tenerife. This tree, which is actually a member of the lily family, is over 800 years old and is considered one of the oldest living organisms in the world. It stands at 18 meters tall and has a trunk circumference of 20 meters. The dragon tree is a symbol of the Canary Islands and is featured on the island’s coat of arms. Another ancient tree in the Canary Islands is the Garoé, also known as the Holy Tree of El Hierro. This tree, a laurel, is famous for its ability to collect water from the mist that surrounds it, providing a vital source of water for the island’s inhabitants. The original tree was destroyed in 1610, but a new tree has been planted in its place, continuing the tradition of this sacred site. In the Basque Country, the Oak of Gernika is a symbol of Basque identity and history. This ancient oak, located in the town of Gernika, has been a gathering place for the Basque people for centuries. It is under this tree that the traditional Basque parliament, the Juntas Generales, meets. The current tree is a descendant of the original oak, which was planted in the 14th century. This tree is a living symbol of Basque culture and autonomy. In the region of Extremadura, the Alcornoque de las Barrancas is an ancient cork oak located in the Sierra de San Pedro. This tree is over 500 years old and has a trunk circumference of 7 meters. It is a popular spot for locals to gather and celebrate traditional festivals, adding a cultural dimension to its natural beauty. The Alcornoque de las Barrancas is also a vital part of the local ecosystem, providing habitat and food for a variety of wildlife. In the beautiful region of Galicia, the Castro de Santa Tecla is home to a remarkable yew tree that is estimated to be over 1000 years old. This tree is located in the ancient Celtic settlement of Santa Tecla, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history. The yew tree, with its twisted branches and dense foliage, is a symbol of longevity and resilience, having survived countless storms and changes over the centuries. In the Sierra de Cazorla, in the province of Jaén, the Quejigo de los Riscos is a monumental holm oak that is over 700 years old. This tree, with a height of 20 meters and a trunk circumference of 6 meters, is a popular spot for nature lovers and hikers. It is a symbol of the region’s rich biodiversity and a testament to the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations. Finally, in the province of Málaga, the Pinsapo de las Escaleretas is a rare Spanish fir tree that is over 350 years old. This tree, located in the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, is a symbol of the region’s unique flora and fauna. With a height of 26 meters and a trunk circumference of 5 meters, the Pinsapo de las Escaleretas is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Its twisted branches and dense foliage create a magical atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the natural beauty of Spain.