Where the Oldest Olive Trees in Northern Cyprus are Located
The oldest olive trees in Northern Cyprus are usually associated with the Anıt Zeytin Ağaçları grove near the village of Kalkanlı, not far from Güzelyurt. According to descriptions from tourist and specialized sources, some of the trees here reach the age of 700–800 years, and the site itself is known as a natural and botanical zone. After a major fire on May 17, 2020, a significant part of the grove was damaged; however, individual old trees have survived, and the location remains an interesting spot for a visit.
- Where are the ancient olive trees located
- How old are they
- What happened after the 2020 fire
- What to see nearby
- How to get there
- Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the ancient olive trees located
The primary location, commonly referred to as the home of the oldest olive trees in Northern Cyprus, is situated in the vicinity of Kalkanlı village, near the road between Güzelyurt and Girne. This area is known as Asırlık Zeytin Ağaçları or Anıt Zeytin Ağaçları.
In route descriptions and tourist materials, this place is called a botanical site and a protected natural area. Previously, there were about 2,000 old trees counted here, and information plaques were placed near some of the most notable specimens.
How old are they
The most common age estimate is 700–800 years for the oldest trees. Several descriptions indicate that some of the plantings may date back to the Lusignan period, and individual trees are considered among the oldest on the island.
At the same time, the exact age of each specific tree may vary, and popular publications use different phrasings—ranging from "more than 700 years" to "around 800 years." Therefore, it is more accurate to say that the Kalkanlı grove is considered the most famous location with centuries-old olive trees in Northern Cyprus.
| Parameter | Data | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Kalkanlı, Güzelyurt district | On the road between Güzelyurt and Girne |
| Area Name | Asırlık Zeytin Ağaçları | Also found as Anıt Zeytin Ağaçları |
| Age of the oldest trees | 700–800 years | According to tourist and specialized descriptions |
| Historical connection | Medieval period | The Lusignan era is often mentioned |
| Grove scale before the fire | About 2,000 trees | Estimate found in several sources |
What happened after the 2020 fire
On May 17, 2020, a major fire occurred in this area, seriously damaging the ancient grove. Publications about the fire estimate that about 60–90% of the old trees were affected, depending on the source and counting method.
Therefore, today it is reasonable to perceive this location not as a fully preserved "olive forest" of its former appearance, but as a place where you can still see surviving old trees and understand the scale of the region's natural heritage. It remains an interesting point for a trip, but expectations should be aligned with the consequences of the fire.
What to see nearby
A trip to the old olive trees is easily combined with other locations in the western and northwestern parts of Northern Cyprus. Nearby, it is often recommended to visit the Blue House, as well as the center of Güzelyurt with the Church of St. Mamas.
Another natural spot nearby is the Çoban Cave, which is sometimes included in the same route. If you want to supplement your trip with other locations and activities across the island, excursion options can be found via GetYourGuide.
How to get there
The most convenient way is to drive by car along the road between Güzelyurt and Girne, heading towards the Kalkanlı area. The central point of the route is usually given as 35.25678291843241, 33.032269147043515, but after the fire, it is better to look for the old trees not just at one point, but along the perimeter of the valley.
By public transport, you can reach Kalkanlı and then walk part of the way. However, for a relaxed visit and a combined route around the surrounding area, a car is usually more convenient.
How to do it
- Plan a route to Kalkanlı from the direction of Güzelyurt or Girne.
- Allow extra time to search for surviving trees throughout the valley, not just at a single spot.
- Bring water and wear comfortable shoes, as part of the exploration takes place in open terrain.
- Combine the trip with Güzelyurt, the Blue House, or other locations in the area.
If you don't have your own car, you can compare rental options through EconomyBookings or check local offers from rental companies in Northern Cyprus. The detailed rental procedure is covered in the article "Car Rental in Northern Cyprus".
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the oldest olive trees in Northern Cyprus located?
The most famous location is near the village of Kalkanlı, not far from Güzelyurt, within the territory of Asırlık Zeytin Ağaçları.
How old are the oldest trees?
Various descriptions most frequently cite an age of about 700–800 years.
Was the grove preserved after the fire?
Yes, but not entirely. After the fire on May 17, 2020, a significant number of ancient trees were lost, though some old specimens have survived.
Is it possible to get there without a car?
Yes, part of the journey can be made by public transport to Kalkanlı, but for a full exploration of the area, a car is significantly more convenient.
What is there to see nearby?
Usually, the trip is combined with Güzelyurt, the Church of St. Mamas, the Blue House, and other natural spots in the region.
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