Oliva de Agua Amarga, Ancient olive tree in Agua Amarga, Spain.
The Oliva de Agua Amarga is an ancient olive tree in the dry landscape of Níjar with two arched trunks that have grown together as one. Its branches spread wide and create a large shaded area that offers relief on hot days.
This tree is estimated to be several thousand years old, making it one of the oldest specimens in the Mediterranean region. Scientific research has confirmed it is older than many celebrated ancient trees found in other parts of the world.
This tree has been part of the local landscape for centuries and shows how important olive trees have always been to the people of this region. Visitors can see how this plant has survived and served the community through generations in this dry area.
The tree lies away from the road and requires walking through dry, open terrain, so bring water and sun protection when visiting in hot weather. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the heat is less intense.
The trunk is so wide at its thickest point that it spans about as much as the length of a car, with bark that shows its age through deep furrows and cracks. Despite its extreme age, the tree continues to put out new branches and occasionally produces olives.
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