Bartek

Bartek is a pedunculate oak in Zagnańsk, Poland, recognized as one of the country's protected natural monuments. The tree stands around 34 meters tall, with a trunk that measures roughly 13 meters in circumference at ground level, and its crown is formed by eight large branches supported by props.

The tree was first reinforced in the 1920s with a limestone core to support the interior wood. Scientists initially estimated its age at 1200 years, but a 2016 study using ring counting determined that the oak is actually around 686 years old.

The oak takes its name from a Silesian monk who is said to have lived in the area during medieval times. Local families often visit the tree for celebrations and anniversaries, seeing it as a symbol of continuity and connection to the region.

The monument stays open to visitors throughout the year, and tours can be arranged through ITS-Poland, which primarily serves groups of ten or more people. A short walk from the town center leads directly to the tree, which is surrounded by a fenced area with information panels.

The trunk was filled with resin during the 1960s, replacing the original limestone core installed several decades earlier. This work aimed to stabilize the hollow interior and slow the development of new cracks without damaging the outer bark.