Prostse, one of the oldest trees in Velingrad

Did you know that one of the oldest trees in the Rhodopes is located in the forest above Kleptuza Lake, Velingrad?

Under the heavy shade of a natural forest stands an ancient beech – a silent witness to fiery historical events. Its majestic crowns, having withstood the turns of time, have over the years become a striking and unique monument to Bulgarian resilience and eternity.

Even today, it continues to be a source of wisdom and positive energy.

If you want to meet this tree, which amazes with its life-giving powers and beauty, you can find it about an hour’s hike into the forest above Kleptuza Lake. Start toward the St. Elijah chapel and follow the red trail.

The 650-year-old tree of Prosce is a living memory of time

In the heart of the village of Prosce rises a true natural and historical monument – the majestic 650-year-old tree, which preserves the memories of countless generations. With its impressive crown and massive trunk, this ancient giant has witnessed centuries of change – from the old customs and traditions of the village to the present day.

It is believed that the tree was planted in the 14th century – a time of medieval kingdoms and legends. Over the years, it has been a place for rest, gatherings, and festivals, where locals would come together to share stories, joys, and worries.

Today, the 650-year-old tree is not only a natural landmark – it is a symbol of resilience, strength, and the connection between past and present. Its presence reminds us that while time flows relentlessly, our roots remain deeply connected to the earth and traditions.

If you visit Prosce, take the time to stand under the shade of this living witness to history – you will feel the calm and strength that only centuries can give.

Here are some interesting and curious facts about the beech (Fagus sylvatica) – one of the most impressive trees in our forests:

The beech is a long-living tree – it can live over 300–400 years, and some specimens even over 500 years under good conditions.
Some specimens can become towering giants – the beech can reach heights of 40–50 meters, and its trunk can have a diameter of over 2 meters.
Under its shade… The dense beech crown allows very little light through, so only shade-loving plants grow beneath it.
The beech is the “lung” of the mountain – beech forests purify the air very efficiently and absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide. That is why the air in a beech forest feels so noticeably clean.

And More

In autumn, beech leaves turn golden and red, and the fallen leaves enrich the soil with valuable nutrients.
Beeches leaf out relatively late in spring (April–May), when the risk of frost has passed – this is considered a high form of intelligence among trees.
Beech wood is hard, strong, and easy to work with, making it suitable for furniture, flooring, and musical instruments.
Food from the forest – beech nuts are edible for humans and important for wildlife.
Beech forests are characteristic of Europe and are even considered the “heart” of the European broadleaf forests.
Some old beeches have witnessed historical events and local legends, and in many cultures, the tree symbolizes wisdom, longevity, and resilience.

Why the beech is important for nature and humans

The beech is one of the most valuable and beautiful trees in our forests. It purifies the air and produces oxygen, providing a home for many animals and plants. Its dense shade preserves soil moisture, and its fallen leaves enrich it with nutrients. Its fruits – beech nuts – feed birds and forest animals, while its wood is used for furniture and instruments. With its longevity and strength, the beech symbolizes the resilience of nature and reminds us how important it is to protect our forests.

Here is an old Bulgarian saying:

👉 “The pine drinks water,
The oak decomposes in water,
The beech makes water”

is short but contains deep folk wisdom and observation of tree properties gathered over centuries. But why?

“The pine drinks water”

– The pine grows well even in poorer and drier soils, but its roots “seek” and absorb moisture from the earth. Figuratively, it “drinks” the water because it needs it to grow, and its wood remains relatively dry and light.

“The oak decomposes in water”

– The oak is very strong and hard, but its wood is not suitable for prolonged contact with water – it eventually decays. People noticed this and summarized it clearly – the oak “decomposes in water.”

“The beech makes water”

– This is the most interesting part. The beech “makes water” because its root system releases moisture and retains water. Moreover, beech forests, with their enormous crowns, create their own microclimate – preserving soil moisture and supporting the formation of springs and streams. In other words, where there is beech, there is water.

This short folk wisdom is not just a story – it is the result of careful observation of nature by our ancestors. In a few words, they described the natural properties and behaviors of the three main types of trees important for life and livelihood. This shows how deep and accurate the old Bulgarians’ connection with nature was – they not only loved it but also understood it.

And last but not least… grounding

In previous articles, we have discussed the importance of grounding.

Why the beech is a wonderful tree to hug

🌿 1. Smooth and pleasant bark
Beeches have characteristic gray, smooth bark without deep cracks or thorns. This makes them very pleasant to touch – a true pleasure to hug and feel their strength and calm.

2. Powerful yet gentle presence

The beech is strong and stable but not “rough” – it radiates calm and protection. Hugging it, one feels connected to the earth and nature, as if the tree is “hugging” back.

🌱 3. Long-living and wise friend
Beeches live for centuries. Hugging one is symbolically touching the wisdom of ages – the tree was here long before us and will remain long after us. This brings a sense of continuity and security.

💦 4. “Tree of water” and life
As the old Bulgarian wisdom says – “The beech makes water.” Beech forests preserve moisture, create coolness, and clean air. Hugging a beech connects us with the source of life – the water and air it sustains.

🧘 5. Beneficial for body and mind
Research shows that hugging trees reduces stress, slows the pulse, and improves mood. The beech, with its stability and softness, is ideal for this – it has a calming effect and energizes.