The Oldest Olive Trees in the World
Olive trees are living witnesses of human history, some having survived for thousands of years. Among these ancient trees, Tunisia is home to one of the most remarkable: the Echraf Olive Tree.
The Echraf Olive Tree: A Tunisian Treasure
Located near Haouaria, Tunisia, before entering the city, the Echraf Olive Tree is considered the oldest olive tree in the country. Its impressive dimensions include:
- Root coverage: Around 16 meters
- Trunk circumference: 6 meters
- Estimated age: Over 2,500 years
Despite its ancient age, the tree still produces olives, although its yield has declined due to drought and climate change. This majestic tree is not just a symbol of Tunisia's rich agricultural heritage, but also a testament to resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
Tunisia, as one of the world's largest olive oil producers, continues to uphold its millennia-old tradition of olive cultivation.
Other Ancient Olive Trees Around the World
While the Echraf Olive Tree stands as a symbol of Tunisia's deep-rooted history, several other olive trees around the world also claim remarkable longevity:
1. The Sisters (Bechealeh, Lebanon) – 6,000 years
A grove of sixteen olive trees, estimated to be around 6,000 years old, located in Bechealeh, northern Lebanon.
2. The Al Badawi Olive Tree (Bethlehem, Palestine) – 4,000-5,000 years
One of the oldest olive trees in Palestine, estimated to be around 4,000 to 5,000 years old.
3. The Olive Tree of Luras (Sardinia, Italy) – 3,000-4,000 years
Known as "Olivastro di Luras", this tree is a natural landmark of Sardinia, standing as a testament to Italy’s rich olive history.
4. The Olive Tree of Vouves (Crete, Greece) – 3,000 years
This legendary tree, in Ano Vouves, is one of the world’s oldest fruit-bearing olive trees, still producing olives today.
5. The Azorias Olive Tree (Crete, Greece) – 2,000-3,000 years
Another ancient olive tree in Crete, estimated to be between 2,000 and 3,000 years old.
6. The Olive Tree of Pefkari (Thassos, Greece) – 2,500 years
Located on the island of Thassos, this tree has witnessed centuries of Greek history.
7. The Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Olive Tree (France) – 2,000 years
This stunning tree, on the French Riviera, is believed to be around 2,000 years old.
A Legacy of Strength and History
These ancient olive trees stand as symbols of peace, endurance, and continuity, linking past civilizations with the present. They remind us of the importance of preserving nature and cultural heritage for future generations.
Among them, Tunisia’s Echraf Olive Tree remains a national treasure, embodying the timeless spirit of the country’s deep connection to olive cultivation.
