share
Mother Encina or Del Romo (Unique Tree) |
The Oak of Romo or Mother Oak: (located on a private estate) On the road from Valverde de Leganés to Almendral, about 6 Km from Valverde, we take the track on the right (road from Badajoz to Barcarrota) and follow it for 2.7 km until we reach the Castle of Los Arcos. Once there, we continue along the path leaving the castle on the right and we will reach a fork. We take the right path and 800 m from the castle on the right is this tree.
It is estimated to be 500 years old and is one of the two largest oak trees in the province of Badajoz and one of the most important in the Iberian Peninsula. Its monumental size is impressive when we are under its canopy, which is 32 meters in diameter.
Unfortunately, the strong winds at the end of 2006 caused irreparable damage to its canopy, formed by heavy branches up to 15 meters long, disproportionate in relation to its height, a typical shape of oaks pruned to increase acorn production.
To support its gigantic branches and extend its life as long as possible, a team of technicians proceeded with the restoration in the summer of 2007.
Today, the old tree is supported by 20 wooden pillars with a metal fork at each end, and it is in poor conservation condition. Its appearance is sad, decadent, with two large fractured branches and 30% of the canopy missing.
Coordinates: 6º53'45.86" W / 38º36'43.16" N.