Polski
Bartek is decidedly the most famous tree in the Świętokrzyskie region, and arguably in all of Poland.
Taking a selfie with this majestic pedunculate oak is an absolute must for any tourist visiting the Świętokrzyskie Mountains.
How old is it? If the legend of King Bolesław I the Brave resting in the shade of its massive branches is true, the tree must be well over 1,000 years old. However, recent studies have significantly rejuvenated Bartek. Dendrologists estimate that it has been rooted here for over seven centuries. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that Bartek impresses with its scale. The tree stands approximately 30 meters tall. At breast height (measured at 1.30 meters), its trunk circumference measures nearly 10 meters. To wrap their arms around it, at least six people of average height would have to hold hands. The crown spans 20 by 40 meters, which equals the dimensions of a full-sized handball court.
Strolling around the tree, you will surely notice that on the side opposite the road (the north-eastern side), the oak is devoid of large branches, and the trunk bears a "dressing" made of bark from other oaks. This is one of the ways foresters have been assisting Bartek for decades, as it has faced numerous misfortunes throughout the centuries. Following a fire in 1906, necrosis set into the tree. The resulting hollow was secured with a cement filling in 1920, which was replaced decades later with a compound made of wood and resin. Near the oak, you will find information boards and a covered shelter. On the western side, you will see a small shrine dedicated to Saint Hubert, the patron saint of hunters. Further along, towards the road, stands Bartuś—a descendant of the king of the Świętokrzyskie forest. It has been growing here for over 50 years, having been planted to commemorate the millennium of the baptism of Poland.
Good to know
Please remember that the Bartek Oak is a venerable old tree that deserves not only admiration but also peace and quiet. Walk only along the designated paths alongside the fence. You can also see Bartek without leaving your home. This is made possible by the forest district website, http://www.dabbarteknaszwspolnyznajomy.pl, where you can find a live camera feed installed directly next to Bartek.
