Probably the most famous tree in our region is the linden of King Matej.

It has been growing in the area of the Bojnice chateau park for 700 years and, according to legend, was planted there by Matúš Čák Trenčiansky after the death of Andrew III, who was the last ruler of the Arpád family. But Podhorie also boasts a tree with its own legend. You will discover Rákoci's oak above the village of Podlužany, a green tourist sign will bring you under its bushy crown.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Hungary experienced a series of anti-Habsburg uprisings. At the head of the last and at the same time the greatest was Francis II. Rákoci. "With the length, mass character or amount of damage, Rákoci overcame the uprisings of the 17th century Štefan Bočkaj, Gabriel Betlen, Juraj I. Rákoci and Imrich Tököli," explains archaeologist Tomáš Michalík.

The steps of the Prince of Transylvania and the County of Spiš also led to the region, which is now part of the Trenčín Region. According to legends, he was to build his camp above the village of Podlužany, from which he led expeditions and battles. The main tent was supposed to stand under a massive summer oak, which alone dominated the surrounding country. However, it did not bring him luck to Rákocim - in 1708 he suffered a cruel defeat in a battle near Trenčín, during which he himself almost died.

The oak that bears its name is supposed to be a monument to ancient history. It is currently 17 meters high, with a diameter of 21 meters. It belongs to the protected trees, the reason is its scientific-research, educational and cultural-educational significance. It boasts a remarkable age - it is a 300- to 400-year-old piece with a huge growth, which still attracts attention.

photo: FB Vrchárska koruna Trenčianska