Oradea authorities cut 245-year-old ash tree

The Oradea City Hall has faced controversy following the removal of a 245-year-old ash tree, known as the Rhédey Count's ash, located on Matei Basarab Street. The tree, which was the second oldest in the city, had been recently included in a municipal masterplan as a remarkable specimen intended for a natural heritage tourist route.

Local authorities stated the tree was felled between May 12 and 13 because it was “completely dry,” making its removal necessary for safety reasons. However, the decision has sparked public debate, as previous assessments categorized the tree as medium risk and noted it lacked evident cavities or immediate signs of collapse. The tree was situated in the former garden of Count Lajos Rhédey, a nobleman who donated the property to the city on the condition that it remain a green space.