Imagine, if you will, a silent sentinel watching over Prague. That is the L\u00edpa republiky. This tree stands as a vibrant symbol of Czech history.
The L\u00edpa republiky or the L\u00edpa svobody which translates to Freedom Tree or Republic Tree is a frequent designation for memorable trees. Most of these trees were planted during the 20th century. They particularly commemorate the founding of Czechoslovakia. These trees usually date back to 1919. Others mark the 50th jubilee around 1968. Still others celebrate liberation at the end of World War II.
Here at N\u00e1m\u011bst\u00ed Barik\u00e1d on \u017di\u017ekov stands one such tree. It is a L\u00edpa republiky. This particular L\u00edpa republiky was planted on October 28 1968. It commemorates the 50th anniversary of Czechoslovakia. Old\u0159ich Jakl the local elementary school’s director planted it. Students and teachers from the school attended.
Projects like L\u00edpy republiky 1918-2018 remind people of the republic’s centennial. Stromy svobody 1918-2018 is another project. Nadace Partnerstv\u00ed organizes it. They have support from Post Bellum and other organizations. These projects aim to map all L\u00edpa republiky trees. They also ensure the trees get needed care. New trees get planted for the centennial.
The L\u00edpa or linden tree has deep roots in Czech culture. It became a national symbol in 1848. That is when the V\u0161eslovansk\u00fd sjezd took place in Prague. Delegates chose the L\u00edpa. It stood against greater German efforts to suppress Slavic people. Franti\u0161ek Ladislav \u010celakovsk\u00fd supposedly suggested the L\u00edpa as the national symbol.
Czechs have always loved L\u00edpa trees. The tree symbolizes protection help and love. People thought it could ward off evil spirits. They also believed its energy could rid people of dark thoughts. Mythology links the L\u00edpa to the goddess of love. Christians often associate it with the Virgin Mary. People hung images of the Virgin Mary on L\u00edpa trees.
Carvers used the pliable linden wood. They made altars and statues of saints. That is why they called it holy wood. The wood accompanied people from birth to death. Linden wood served to make furniture and musical instruments. It was used for cradles and coffins too. The L\u00edpa also has importance in medicine.
Legend says good spirits inhabited L\u00edpa trees. People sought shelter under them during storms. They believed lightning would not strike a L\u00edpa. Even now the L\u00edpa holds its position. It remains a beloved tree often planted across the country.
This L\u00edpa republiky here has a trunk about 159 cm around as of 2021. Its estimated age is around 55 years. It is a l\u00edpa srd\u010dit\u00e1 or small-leaved lime. As you stand here take a moment. Consider the history and symbolism this tree embodies. The L\u00edpa republiky reminds us of freedom, resilience and national pride.