THE 350-YEAR-OLD OAK
OF THE VILLAGE OF KAMPOS
The giant 350-year-old oak tree of the village of Kampos has become the main local attraction in the area. Considered a sacred landmark by the locals, the grand old oak stands by the main road leading into the village. Standing tall, the tree, also known as the ‘Oak of Piphani’, is beautifully integrated into its surroundings. Previously widespread, the number of these oaks in Cyprus has now decreased and their habitat range has shrunk, making this tree even more special.
The village of Kampos Tis Tsakistirras and the nearby river of the same name both lie within the Nicosia district. 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. The village is surrounded by vast forests made up of pine, oak, and plane, and the area also boasts cherry and kiwi orchards. The area also boasts the Sakura Park, which is an initiative created after a visit by the Japanese Ambassador Iseki Izumi in 2022. The nearby 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 Cypriot oak is a semi-deciduous tree that only partially sheds its leaves during specific seasons. These types of trees are often found in regions with temperate or subtropical climates, where seasonal changes are not extreme. Unlike fully deciduous trees, some of this oak’s leaves remain intact throughout the year. Examples of other semi-deciduous plants include certain species of evergreen shrubs or other trees that constantly renew their foliage.
✨ 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
