How Pato’s tree was damaged
The olive tree associated with Plato’s Academy in Athens held a revered place in Greek history and legend. It was said to be a direct offshoot of the olive tree planted by Athena, the patron goddess of Athens, and was believed to be over 2,400 years old. According to ancient lore, the olive tree stood near the site where Plato, the great philosopher, taught his students in the 4th century BCE. This tree became a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and continuity, linking modern Greece to its classical past.
In 1976, tragedy struck when a bus accidentally collided with the tree, causing severe damage to its trunk and roots. The tree, already ancient and weakened, could not survive the impact, and it was declared dead. This unexpected event shocked Athenians and symbolized a loss of a living link to ancient Greek civilization.
Despite the tree’s destruction, some of its branches were preserved, and saplings were planted in various locations, continuing its legacy. Pieces of the wood were also distributed as historical artifacts and carved into keepsakes, honoring the memory of Plato’s tree. The incident with the bus in the 1970s has become a bittersweet story, symbolizing the fragility of history and heritage. Though the tree itself was lost, its legacy endures, reminding people of the enduring values of wisdom and the shared heritage of Greek philosophy and culture.
Photo Credit: Olive Oil Times
