The Oak of El Romo, or Mother Oak, is estimated to be 500 years old. It is one of the two largest oaks in the province of Badajoz and one of the most important in the Iberian Peninsula. Its monumental... (plus +)

The Oak of El Romo, or Mother Oak, is estimated to be 500 years old. It is one of the two largest oaks in the province of Badajoz and one of the most important in the Iberian Peninsula. Its monumental size is awe-inspiring when standing beneath its canopy, which spans 32 meters in diameter. Its gigantic branches, as thick as the trunks of some oaks considered monumental. Unfortunately, strong winds in late 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 managed and pruned to increase acorn production. To support its gigantic branches and extend its life as long as possible, a team of technicians from Valencia and the Junta de Extremadura carried out the restoration of the "Mother Oak" in the summer of 2007. Today, the ancient tree is supported by 20 crutches. The care and sensitivity shown by this extraordinary living natural monument, dearly beloved in the region and declared a Singular Tree of Extremadura, is a truly exemplary case worth noting. DATA Location: El Romo. Municipality: Badajoz (Badajoz). Coordinates: 38º 36'42" N, 6º 5'46" W Ownership: Private. Date of declaration: Decree 140/2005, of June 7. Estimated age: 500 years. Nearby singular trees: Almendro Real (Valverde de Leganés), Olivo de La Tapada (La Morera). Leaf: Evergreen. ACCESS Although located on lands belonging to the municipality of Badajoz, the oak is closer to Valverde de Leganés. Leaving our town, on the road leading to Almendral, continue for about 6.5 km. At that point, after passing a change in elevation, a path appears on the right that we must follow for about 3.5 km. We will see the oak within a fence next to the path. Extreme caution must be taken with the livestock to avoid disturbing the Iberian pigs or the brave cattle. ----- Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/djHeWCZkTQXAPVgG9
(minus -)