Nature on our Doorsteps: Sacred trees

TREES were highly valued by our ancestors, and not just for the wood they provided for building, shelter, fires for cooking and warmth, and for the making of tools and weapons.

They were also highly respected for what the trees themselves symbolised.

Special, or sacred, trees marked territorial boundaries, as well as sites where chieftains or kings were inaugurated.

They also often marked the source of a sacred spring or a holy well.

Trees were also believed to have their own internal spiritual power which could be drawn upon to protect people, homesteads, livestock, and crops.

Because of all of this, trees were protected under early laws.

Fines and punishments were imposed for needlessly damaging or cutting down certain trees.

This young ‘noble of the wood’ is sturdy enough to be planted out this springtime

The most revered trees were the seven ‘nobles of the wood’: Oak, Ash, Yew, Hazel, Holly, Pine, and Apple.

Cutting out one of these trees could result in a fine of two dairy cows. This was a tough punishment at a time when cattle were the main source of food and family wealth.

Trees also gave their names to places in the landscape.

In South Dublin County, Elm must have been plentiful at one time, as it gave its name to Kiltalown (Coillte leamhán – woodland of the Elm) and Lucan (Leamhcán – place of the Elm).

Today, we also recognise the role of trees in cleaning the air we breathe, cooling the environment in built-up areas, and absorbing carbon from the atmosphere.

Despite this long association with trees, however, Ireland is the least wooded country in the European Union.

Planting a tree this springtime therefore seems like a very good thing to do.