Portugal’s natural heritage is once again drawing international attention as a cedar tree from Torres Vedras competes in the European Tree of the Year competition. The Cedar of the Church of Runa secured its place after winning the national title with more than 18,000 votes, reflecting strong public support and deep local connection. At around 75 years old, the tree stands as more than a natural landmark, representing a shared history within the community and highlighting Portugal’s ongoing efforts to celebrate and preserve environmental and cultural identity.
The cedar was planted in the early 1950s a local resident named Alfredo and has since grown alongside the village, becoming a familiar presence in daily life. Residents consider it a symbol of continuity and memory, with generations having gathered around it over the decades. Its recognition at the European level is not based solely on its physical characteristics but also on the emotional bond it has created within the community, which has become a key factor in the competition’s evaluation process.
This year’s contest brings together 12 notable trees from across Europe, each with its own story and cultural significance. The Portuguese entry faces competition from prominent contenders including historic oaks and large scale trees from other countries, yet its narrative and community support have positioned it as a strong candidate. The competition places equal importance on storytelling and environmental value, reinforcing the idea that trees can serve as living witnesses to local heritage and collective identity.
A new voting system has been introduced this year to ensure fairness among participating countries with different population sizes. The points based approach adjusts results to reflect national population differences, giving smaller countries a more balanced opportunity to compete. This change is expected to enhance the credibility of the competition and ensure that entries like the Cedar of Runa are evaluated on their cultural and environmental significance rather than purely on vote volume.
The final result will be announced at a ceremony in Brussels on March 24, with growing anticipation across participating nations. For Portugal, the nomination itself has already reinforced the importance of protecting natural landmarks that carry both ecological and social value. The Cedar of Runa continues to stand as a symbol of resilience and shared memory, drawing attention to the role of nature in preserving stories that extend far beyond generations.
