THE 350-YEAR-OLD OAK
OF THE VILLAGE OF KAMPOS
A SPECIAL TREE
The village of Kampos Tis Tsakistirras is located within the Nicosia district, and its giant oak tree is a main local attraction in the area. Also known as the ‘Oak of Piphani’, the grand, 350-year-old tree stands tall. Considered sacred by locals, the giant oak tree has become beautifully integrated into its immediate surroundings, dominating the main road leading into the village. Although previously widespread, the number of these oaks has decreased considerably across the island. Several locals believe that the fact that the habitat range of these trees has drastically shrunk makes this tree even more special.
THE SEKURA PARK
The village of Kampos Tis Tsakistirras and the nearby river of the same name are both surrounded by vast forest that is made up of pine, oak, and plane. The area also boasts several cherry and kiwi orchards. The Museum of Forest Heritage acts as a tribute to the locals, who, besides viticulture and horticulture, have traditionally been involved in logging and lumber production. The Sakura Park, which is an initiative created after a visit by the Japanese Ambassador Iseki Izumi in 2022, is also nearby. Both are considered natural sanctuaries, and this, along with the village’s unique blend of history and tranquillity, presents a refreshing reprieve from the hustle and bustle of other areas on the island.
A SEMI-DECIDUOUS TREE
The Cypriot oak is a semi-deciduous tree that only partially sheds its leaves during specific seasons. This means that, unlike fully deciduous trees, some of this oak’s leaves remain intact throughout the year, giving it an evergreen status. These types of trees are often found in regions with temperate or subtropical climates, where seasonal changes are not extreme.
✨ FACTS & FIGURES ✨
🌳 The Great Oak of Kampos is approximately 350 years old
🌳 This semi-deciduous tree belongs to the local species of Cypriot oak
🌳 Measuring 22 metres in height, its trunk measures an impressive 4.8 metres in circumference
🌳 The fruit of the oak is the acorn that ripens towards the end of autumn
