In a square in the center of Ireland one of the most unique postcards of the urban landscape of that country happens. A tree More than 80 years old, a cast iron bench is being devoured.
During the natural growth of the tree, the distance between the London plane tree and the bench in the square became progressively shorter. This process moved slowly, without the attention of the pedestrians who pass through the park daily.
In that sense, as time went by, the wood began to surround the metal structure. The backrest and seat were trapped inside the trunk. The tree ate the bench in the square.
He Hungry Tree, How is this tree known that adopted a particular diet, is located in King’s Inns Parkin Dublin. It is a large specimen belonging to the family of the shade bananasa common species in European parks.
It was planted in the 19th century and is estimated to be between 80 and 120 years old. Throughout that time, the trunk steadily gained diameter.
The metal bank It remained located next to the tree for decades. As the trunk widened, the structure became closer and closer to the center of the growth. Finally, the tree ended up surrounding the bench completely, integrating it into its shape without altering its original design.
How the growth of a tree explains this phenomenon
The development of Hungry Tree responds to the annual growth of the tree, which adds new layers of wood over time. That process occurs continuously and uniformly.
When an object remains in direct contact with the trunk, it remains within the expansion radius. Year after year, the tree advances around it.
In this case, the proximity of the bench and the absence of changes in its location made the wood incorporate it into its structure.
Why the Hungry Tree became an attraction in Ireland
As the years passed, the image of the trapped bank began to attract interest. Neighbors and visitors They stop in front of the tree to observe and photograph it.
He Hungry Tree became a reference point within the King’s Inns Park. His unique appearance made him recognizable even outside Ireland.
The scene began to circulate on social networks and international media, which increased its visibility among tourists. At the moment, It is part of the informal tours of the city and remains one of the most photographed elements of the place.
Other unique trees that are part of the Irish landscape
Ireland It has other trees that combine history, tradition and natural particularities, and many of them are associated with local stories.
In Killary Harbourin County Galway, is the so-called fairy treelinked to ancient popular beliefs. Its branches usually appear covered with ribbons and objects. Furthermore, in Glendaloughthe giant trees stand out for their size and age.
For its part, near the castle of Blarneythe poison garden brings together toxic species from different parts of the world, identified with information signs.
