THE 350-YEAR-OLD GIANT OAK TREE
OF THE VILLAGE OF KAMPOS
A SPECIAL TREE
Located within the Nicosia district, the village of Kampos Tis Tsakistirras is home to a grand 350-year-old giant oak tree measuring 22 metres. Also known as the ‘Oak of Piphani’, it is considered sacred by Locals. Dominating the main road leading into the village, this tree is beautifully integrated into its immediate surroundings, creating a unique landmarked landscape in the village. Another facet of the local attraction’s importance is that these trees are becoming rare across Cyprus. Although once widespread, the number of these oak types has decreased considerably, making this tree that little bit more special.
THE LOCAL MUSEUM OF FOREST HERITAGE
The village of Kampos Tis Tsakistirras and the nearby river of the same name are both surrounded by forest that is mainly made up of pine, oak, and plane. Locals, because of this, have been traditionally involved in logging and lumber production in the past. Other local activities have included viticulture and various horticultural activities. The area also boasts fruit orchards, which particularly include cherry and kiwi. Documenting the areas rural history, the local Museum of Forest Heritage offers regular tribute to the history of these people.
THE SEKURA PARK
Considered a natural sanctuary, the Sakura Park is also nearby. The park is an initiative created after a visit by the Japanese Ambassador Iseki Izumi to the area in 2022. This, along with the museum and the village’s unique blend of history and tranquillity, makes for an ideal day trip. This also presents a refreshing reprieve from the hustle and bustle of other nearby areas across 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. As a result, trees that have an evergreen status 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
OTHER NOTABLE OAK TREES ACROSS THE ISLAND
Other notable ancient oak trees can also be found across the island. While most of these trees range in age, the oldest recorded tree in Cyprus is believed to be a 1,500-year-old terebinth tree. This is located in the village of Apesia, within the district of Limassol.
- The ‘Royal Oak’ of the village of Laneia, within the district of Limassol, is believed to be approximately 800 years old. This tree was part of a legendary pair until one of them collapsed.
- Standing at a height of 20 metres, the ‘Fyti Oak Tree’ of the village of Fyti, within the Paphos district, is approximately 850 years old.
- The ‘Ayia Mavri Oak’, is considered one of the largest and oldest oak trees on the island. Located near the village of Koilani, within the district of Limassol, it is situated near the Ayia Mavri chapel. Standing at a height of 36 metres, this ancient tree is estimated to be over 900 years old.
- The ‘Prodromi Oak’ of Polis Chrysochous, within the Paphos district, is a well-known centuries-old landmark in the Paphos region.
