The Monumental Olive Tree, or “Mana Elia,” is located in Kamilari, Crete. It is a designated natural monument due to its size and historical significance. The tree is approximately 2,800 years old.
Mana Elia has a base perimeter of 9.5 meters. Its trunk is marked by age. The Kamilari Cultural Association has placed twelve large stones around the tree for protection. Eight of the stones are carved with the double axe symbol associated with the Minoan civilization.
Mana Elia is near the Kamilari Tholos Tomb and the Minoan Palace of Phaistos. It is a “Thrombolia” variety olive, locally called “Hontrolia,” grafted onto a wild olive rootstock. This grafting technique ensures the tree’s continued health.
Mana Elia is a popular tourist attraction and represents Crete’s history of olive cultivation. It is valued for its historical and cultural significance.
Relatively straight forward to find, my wife is a botanist, hence our visit but depends on your view on life, if it is worth the trip .
