On a sunny slope of the town of Ano Vouves, in the northwest of Crete, a tree that has seen entire civilizations and that, against all prognosis, continue to give olives. This is the monumental olive tree of Vouves, a unique copy whose age has been estimated at about 4,000 years, according to a recent study published in the Plants magazine. If the figures are confirmed, we would be facing one of the oldest trees in the world still active.
Beyond its longevity, which amazes scientists and visitors is that this millenary being is still alive in the most literal sense: it sprouts, flourishes and bear fruit every year. In its twisted cup, more than four meters in diameter, olives are born that are not only edible, but also keep surprising quality.
The tree belongs to the species Olea Europea L., which has accompanied the diet, economy and the rituals of the Mediterranean since ancient times. Its location is not anecdotal: Crete was one of the first domestication centers of the olive tree, and this specimen could have taken root while the Minoan civilization flourished, before the mynical invasions or the arrival of Rome.
A form sculpted by time
Its appearance impresses as much as its history. The vouves olive tree, hollow inside and with twisted shapes that seem molded for centuries of wind and rain, has been subject to study by its peculiar morphology. In fact, it was this trait that led to a scientific team led by Professor Mihalis Avramakis to analyze it in depth.
Determining the exact age of such an old tree is not simple. In olive trees of this magnitude, the nucleus of the trunk usually disappears over time, which prevents rings as normally. To overcome this obstacle, the researchers combined non -invasive techniques – such as computerized tomography – with secondary branches and anatomical studies of leaves and stems. The result was a surprising estimate: about four millennia of active life.
Fruits of antiquity
One of the most striking findings is that the tree not only survives, but continues to produce healthy and viable olives. Foliar tests revealed that their fabrics maintain a vitality comparable to that of young trees. Its green branches, sprouting regularly, demonstrate a biological resilience that even amazes experts.
The study also found how its current form is the result of centuries of adaptation: erosion, ancient pruning and natural phenomena have modeled their silhouette, contributing to their longevity. Far from being a sign of wear, these transformations seem to have been key to their survival.
Mediterranean living heritage
This olive tree is not only a scientific rarity, but also a deeply rooted cultural symbol. Around him, the Vauves Olive Museum was built, founded in 2009, which makes it a botanical and heritage pilgrimage center. The tree branches have even reached the Olympic Games: with them olive crowns for athletes have been made, as wink to the ancient world.
The oil that is obtained from its fruits, although it is not marketed, press artisanally and is considered a local treasure. And in a global context marked by the climatic crisis, this tree offers a valuable lesson: plant longevity does not always imply decline. On the contrary, the Vauves olive tree represents a living hope for biology, conservation and memory of the Mediterranean landscape.
