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.

The linden was planted on a clearing called Geswant and trained as a dance tree, with a circular platform in its crown. In 1863 Jesuit missionaries held 19 of 26 sermons from the hollow western branch known as the Predigtstuhl, reached by nine steps inside the trunk. In 1900 Karl Kronlachner celebrated his first Mass beneath it, and in 1923 a new flag for the Prangerschützen was consecrated here.

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 hollow western branch is still called the "Predigtstuhl" (preaching chair) and can be reached from inside the trunk. During the Jesuit mission from 25 October to 2 November 1863, 19 of 26 sermons were delivered from this pulpit, reached by nine steps built through the cavity.