Dorflinde in Faistenau, Millennium-old linden tree in Faistenau, Austria
The Dorflinde stands in the village square of Faistenau and is a mighty linden tree with a hollow trunk measuring about 9 meters in circumference. The tree reaches a height of around 20 meters and its distinctive form is visible from all sides of the square.
This tree developed over centuries to become a central gathering place for the village. In 1863, Jesuit missionaries used the hollow interior as a pulpit, delivering sermons from within the tree itself.
The tree holds such significance to local identity that it appears as the central element on the municipal coat of arms. This symbol shows how deeply rooted the tree is in the community's sense of belonging.
The tree is accessible year-round and sits centrally in the village square where free parking is available. The location is easy to reach by public transport and the square itself is walkable without difficulty.
The tree was originally designed as a dance linden with circular platforms in its crown where villagers would dance in ring formations. This use as a dance floor shows how the tree served as a social gathering place for the community.
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