Poland’s 300-year-old beech tree, known as Serce Wzgórz Dalkowskich (Heart of the Dalkowskie Hills), is currently competing for the prestigious title of European Tree of the Year 2025. This remarkable tree, located in Dalków, Poland, has caught the attention of both locals and international observers alike as it embarks on this competition.
The European Tree of the Year contest, now entering its fourteenth year, features fifteen trees from across Europe, each winners of their respective national competitions. Poland’s candidate, the beech tree, emerged victorious as Poland’s Tree of the Year 2024, receiving more than 10,500 votes from internet users. Voting for this year’s European contest will be open until February 24, 2025, at 4 p.m. local time.
The contest culminates on March 19, 2025, when the winner will be announced at a ceremony held at the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium. Citizens can cast their votes through various websites, including the official site for the contest, treeoftheyear.org, as well as local platforms.
"We call it 'Heart of the Dalkowskie Hills' for three reasons: first, it grows at the center of the Dalkowskie Hills; second, its leaves turn red in spring, symbolizing the color of hearts; and third, it unites people under its branches," said Anna Gomułka, president of the Foundation for Family and Revitalization of Polish Villages. She highlighted how this tree serves as more than just nature's beauty, describing it as the heart of the community where concerts, literary meetings, and religious ceremonies take place.
According to the Gaja Club, which coordinates the voting process in Poland, every individual can vote only once from their email address. The voting process maintains secrecy until the official announcement, ensuring excitement and suspense as the deadline approaches. This year, the beech tree will compete against stunning candidates from various countries, including Czechia, Hungary, Italy, and Latvia, each with rich historical contexts.
“The victory at the European level is a promotion of our native nature and the social engagement surrounding trees,” stated Jacek Bożek, president of the Gaja Club, emphasizing the broader significance of the contest. The yearly event highlights the ecological and cultural values inherent to these ancient living landmarks.
Past victories for Polish trees have added to the excitement. Dąb Józef from Wiśniowa won the title in 2017, followed by Dąb Dunin, the Guardian of Białowieża Forest, which claimed it in 2022. The momentum continued with Dąb Fabrykant from Łódź winning last year, showcasing Poland’s rich tradition and commitment to preserving natural heritage.
The 300-year-old beech, categorized scientifically as Fagus sylvatica 'Atropunicea', is not only celebrated for its longevity but also for its cultural significance within the region. "It makes me proud to see our tree gaining recognition, and we hope to rally more support for it," commented actress Anna Mucha, who has become involved with the campaign. She and other local supporters have expressed indignation over recent unflattering coverage the tree received on Spanish television, prompting an outpouring of solidarity from the community.
With initiatives like this, the European Tree of the Year contest continues to shine a light on remarkable trees and their stories, weaving together nature and culture. Supporters hope to see the Dalków tree emerge victorious, urging people to participate and spread the word. The message is clear: every voice counts, and every vote matters as Poland takes pride once again on the European stage.
Participate by voting online and sharing information about Poland's Heart of the Dalkowskie Hills, allowing it to grow its roots even stronger within the continent. The stakes are high, and Europe is watching.