Historic 750-year old tree dies in Jordan

A Jordanian oak tree that had provided shade to weary travelers since the time of the Crusades has died, reportedly the victim of careless development. The Jordan News Agency (Petra) reports the 750-year-old tree was located at the western entrance of the northern village of Samou’.

A 750-year-old oak tree in Irbid’s Samou town in northern Jordan has died after standing witness of Jordan’s history for several centuries. Located on the western entrance of Samou’ village in Irbid, the 750-year-old oak had attracted politicians, merchants and army commanders during the Ottoman era seeking shade under its vast branches while they were on their way to Palestine.

Known as Qainosi, the several-century-old oak has fell victim to man’s negligence after its 22-meter diameter truck decayed, making it unable to lift its large branches which stretched over 50-square-meteres. Locals blame an investor for the tragic death of the oak, saying he carried out excavations under the tree and built a rest house under its shades on a plot of land owned by the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs.

Irbid’s Agriculture department had made desperate attempts to save the oak but to no avail as most of its branches fell to the ground with no consolation. It was considered one of the oldest historic trees in the Levant region and stood witness to milestone events in the Islamic history and was an attraction for picnickers.