Konya authorities investigate vandalism of 2,000-year-old ancient tree

An investigation has been launched following the vandalism of a 2,000-year-old protected juniper tree in the Taşkent district of Konya. The ancient tree, a Juniperus foetidissima, is recognized as one of the oldest in the world and is officially designated as a natural monument.

Reports indicate that unidentified individuals used spray paint to write on the tree and used knives to carve letters into its surface. Following social media reports of the damage, gendarmerie teams were dispatched to the site to conduct an inspection and document the scene. Authorities are currently reviewing available camera footage to identify the perpetrators.

Under the Law on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Assets, those responsible for physical interference with the monument could face between two and five years in prison, along with judicial fines. The tree stands approximately 12 meters tall with a trunk circumference of 11.30 meters.