A centuries-old plane tree in southern Greece has been officially recognised as one of the country’s most significant historic trees, earning a place in the Network of Long-Lived Trees of the Greek Revolution.
The Cultural Institute of Messinia announced that the “Plane Tree of King Menelaus”, located beside the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin in the village of Karyes0 near Sparta, has been added to the prestigious network. Its inclusion brings the total number of protected monumental trees across the Peloponnese to 71.
According to researchers, the ancient plane tree is the largest and oldest surviving tree within a historic grove traditionally associated with the legendary Spartan king Menelaus and the events of the Trojan War. The site is also believed to have been referenced by the 2nd-century Greek traveller and geographer Pausanias in his writings.
The recognition comes as Karyes marks the 200th anniversary of the devastating raids carried out by Ibrahim Pasha in 1826 during the Greek War of Independence. Commemorative events planned for the anniversary will include an official ceremony honouring the newly recognised monumental tree, celebrating both its natural heritage and its connection to Greek history and tradition.