Regardless of the progress of human civilization and how advanced science and technology are, the past hides its mysteries that may forever remain a secret. So scientists and hobbyists often wish they had a time machine and could go back in time to get up
witnesses of some of the most interesting and exciting moments in the history of the Bulgarian state. But would you believe it if we told you that there is a living witness who for centuries has quietly observed the ups and downs that our people have experienced. You’ll probably tell yourself it’s impossible, but don’t rush it. This is the Baikusheva mura – one of the oldest trees in Bulgaria. In this article, we have prepared for you 5 interesting facts about this special tree. If we’ve already piqued your curiosity, check out who they are:
1. How old is Baikusheva Mura?
If you have been paying attention in your geography lessons, you probably know that Baikusheva mura is the oldest coniferous tree in our country. But can you guess what her approximate age is? According to the studies done on the tree rings, the mulberry tree is more than 1300 years old.
In itself, that number sounds impressive. But if you try to go back 13 centuries, you will find that it probably witnessed some of the most significant events since the creation of the Bulgarian state, during the reign of great medieval rulers such as Khan Krum, Simeon the Great and Tsar Ivan Asen. the dark times of slavery, and all the way to our modern history.
2. More about the impressive size of the tree
Over the years, the Baikush wall has managed to reach a height of over 26 meters. If you find it difficult imagine it, that’s the height of a total of 6 giraffes stacked on top of each other. The trunk of the tree is also huge. Its circumference is almost 8 meters, and it takes about 6-7 men to cover it with their hands.
All this turns Baikusheva mura into a unique natural phenomenon that never ceases to attract people’s curiosity.
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3. Who is the tree named after?
The interesting facts along this extraordinary tree do not stop there. It’s time to tell you who the black mulberry is named after. It bears the name of its discoverer – Konstantin Baikushev. Unfortunately, his name today does not get the recognition it deserves.
But besides the discoverer of this tree specimen, Baikushev is a prominent forester and one of the pioneers of forestry in Bulgaria.
4. When was Baikusheva Mura discovered?
As we have already mentioned, Konstantin Baikushev became one of the founders of forestry. After graduating in forestry in Germany, he returned to his homeland and set out to study the forests of Pirin.
This happened in 1897, when this territory was still under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. This required King Ferdinand to request special permission from the High Gate.
Permission is granted and the expedition is underway. Thus, in the Burdenitsa area, in Pirin, he discovered the 13th-century black wall, which still bears his name. But do you know who her godfather is?
5. Who is the godfather of Baikusheva Mura?
Of course, when Baikushev discovers the tree, he is impressed, but he is not the one who gives it its name. One
by his nephews, tells an interesting story. The leader of the expedition to explore the Pirin forests is Yonko Vaptsarov – the father of the famous poet Nikola Vaptsarov.
When he took tourists around the area and they reached the wall, he always called it “Baikushev’s tree” and so gradually, it became the Baykushev‘s mura.
This was the last interesting fact that we will share with you.
We hope that this article has given you new knowledge about the history of the oldest coniferous tree found within Bulgaria. If you decide to visit Bansko, be sure to go and see the Baikushev’s mura. Who knows, maybe this silent witness of history will decide to share a secret with you.
