Chêne de la Vierge à Chaville, Ancient oak tree in Viroflay, France.
The Virgin's Oak at Viroflay is a pedunculate oak tree located at the corner of Pavé de Meudon and Chêne de la Vierge streets. A statue of the Virgin Mary, modeled after the one in Chartres Cathedral, stands at the tree's base.
The tree gained religious importance during the cholera epidemic of the 1850s, when local residents gathered there to pray for protection. This tradition transformed it into a recognized sacred landmark in the region.
Pilgrims visit the tree to leave religious offerings such as crosses, rosaries, and crucifixes at its base. These gifts show how the place has become a personal sanctuary for those seeking comfort and blessing.
The tree stands near the edge of Meudon Forest and is within easy reach of Versailles and the train lines to Paris. It is best visited during daylight hours when the surroundings are well-lit and the streets are active.
The Virgin Mary statue replaced an earlier statuette that Celtic aspirants had placed at the site. This layering of different spiritual traditions shows how the location has attracted people from various backgrounds seeking blessing.
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