The hemp oak is the second thickest tree in Latvia and the Baltics. Since 1977, it has been a protected natural monument. Since 1994 it has also been a protected archaeological monument, as a large quantity of stones and charcoal were found near the oak.

19th century. In the 19th century or earlier, more than half of the trunk of the oak tree was rendered lifeless by a lightning strike. After the lightning damage, the trunk and the crown grew only on one side. A huge cavity has formed in the middle of the oak.

The circumference of the trunk has gradually increased over the last twenty years. In 1985, the list of conifers published showed a circumference of 9 m, whereas in 1937 it was 8.95 m. This shows that the trunk has started growing again recently, which is very unusual.

Photo Annija Ratniece

Photo Annija Ratniece