“Rest stop”. That’s what this Ficus Organesis is known for locally. This tree is called the Árvore dos Carvoeiros. It is a popular fig tree. We are standing at kilometer 24 of the Via Anchieta. This is on the ascending track.
The Árvore dos Carvoeiros has a story to tell. It is more than just a tree. The Árvore dos Carvoeiros served as a rest stop. Colliers used it when traveling from Vila Rio Grande. Vila Rio Grande is now Riacho Grande. They were going to São Paulo and nearby areas. They needed to reach consumer centers.
The Árvore dos Carvoeiros is native to this region. It is centuries old. Its size gives it aesthetic value. It also has historical value. It marks the route of the colliers. The tree was listed as a cultural asset in 1999. This happened on October 21st.
If you look around, you will notice something. It is hard to reach the tree. You almost need to jump over the guard rail. There is no sign. There is no clear way to get here. Despite this, the Árvore dos Carvoeiros is open to visitors.
Around the Árvore dos Carvoeiros, there is a concrete structure. It covers the roots. People leave offerings here. This shows the tree’s importance. Though many pass by, few know its history. Locals may not realize its significance.
The Compahc-SBC listed the tree. This is the Council of Historical and Cultural Heritage of São Bernardo. They recognized its historical importance. They also recognized it as a native species.
The Árvore dos Carvoeiros shows its age. Experts have assessed its condition. They found lianas and epiphytes. These are not always harmful. However, they can affect the tree. The trunk has cavities. Some are filled. Others are open. Despite this, no termites were found. No pathogens were found either. The council will discuss conservation plans.
Trees can be cultural heritage. Other cities also protect trees. Curitiba has listed several trees. Rio de Janeiro protects trees on Paquetá Island. These include mangoes and tamarind trees. There is also a large baobab tree. Locals call it Maria Gorda.
The Árvore dos Carvoeiros is more than just a tree. It is a symbol of the past. It reminds us of the colliers. They worked hard in this region. It stands as a landmark. It represents history and nature together. It is a unique part of São Bernardo.