The Almond Tree of the Snowy Hill in Pécs
A tree that has witnessed the rise and fall of several generations of Hungarians
The Almond Tree of the Snowy Hill in Pécs (2019) by Mánfai GyörgyEuropean Tree of the Year
Introducing the almond tree (Prunus dulcis) in front of the Church of Our Lady of the Snow that flourishes at the top of a hill in Pécs in the Baranya region of Hungary. This "snowy" tree has been delighting visitors and residents of Pécs for 135 years.
The history of the magical place dates back to the 1880s, when almond trees were planted near the town to replace the vineyards that perished during the Grape phylloxera epidemic.
The Almond Tree of the Snowy Hill in Pécs (2019) by Svastits KrisztiánEuropean Tree of the Year
During this planting, an almond tree was planted, which won the national award of the Tree of the Year in Hungaria in 2018 and a year later became the European Tree of the Year.
The almond blossoming has been a symbol of eternal renewal and education since Bishop Janus Pannonius wrote his poem about an almond tree in 1466.
Standing on white rocks, defying the winds, this old tree was already being mentioned with love 100 years ago in the local daily press.
The almond trees make the access to the church very pleasant. In spring the tree flowers, in summer it provides gentle shade for those who walk up the hill, and in autumn it bears fruit.
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Visitors of the Snowy Hill where the almond tree stands can enjoy the breathtaking panorama of the city.
The Almond Tree of the Snowy Hill in Pécs (2019) by Máthé TamásEuropean Tree of the Year
The harmonious blend of landscape and history creates a distinctive ambiance and breathtaking vistas that have enthralled numerous visitors, including young people.
The Almond Tree of the Snowy Hill in Pécs (2019) by Hungarian Environmental Partnership AssociationEuropean Tree of the Year
Thus, the place has become an inspiration for young artists...
Did you know that..
The almond flower nectar contains a unique poison that does not harm bees, and which bees find irresistible? Scientists speculate that this toxic substance therefore gives the almond tree a reproductive advantage.
The Almond Tree of the Snowy Hill in Pécs
The tree was crowned the European Tree of the Year 2019. Earning more than 45 thousand votes, Hungarian tree has won the battle among trees with the most interesting stories, for the fourth time in a history of the competition.
Will you support the trees and help us to continue our important work?
GPS: N 46 05.008, E 18 14.291
Feel the atmosphere of the Award Ceremony of the European Tree of the Year 2019 where representatives of the winning Hungarian Almond Tree obtained a travelling wooden trophy.
The Almond Tree was nominated into the Tree of the Year competition by Jurassic Nature and Hiking Club.
The organizer of the Tree of the Year of Hungary is Hungarian Environmental Partnership Association.
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