Across the centuries, Cedar has whispered secrets to the wind. This unassuming two-story university building holds more than lectures and seminars. It holds the echoes of history, intertwined with the majestic Cedar of Lebanon. Cedar, the building, takes its name from this iconic tree, a symbol of Lebanon and a testament to resilience and longevity. The Cedar of Lebanon, Cedrus libani, has graced the grounds of grand estates across Britain for centuries. Its distinct horizontal layers of branches, cloaked in grey-green needles, create an image of timeless grandeur.
Here at Cedar, the connection to the tree is more than just a name. It’s a reminder of the tree’s significance. The Cedar of Lebanon is mentioned numerous times in the Bible, highlighting its historical importance. Its wood, prized for its durability, was used to construct temples and other important structures in antiquity. The tree’s resin was even used in ancient Egyptian embalming practices.
The Cedar of Lebanon can grow to an impressive 35 meters tall, with a trunk spanning two meters in diameter. Imagine the sheer size and presence of such a tree, its branches reaching skyward like ancient arms. Even the cones of the Cedar of Lebanon stand upright, defying gravity. They mature slowly, taking up to 12 months after pollination. They eventually turn from green to a distinguished purple-grey and finally brown. The aromatic scent of the cedarwood is known to repel insects. It is still used today to protect clothing from moths.
While the Cedar building might not reach the towering heights of its namesake, it holds its own kind of significance. It is a hub of learning, a place where knowledge grows and flourishes, much like the slow but steady growth of the Cedar of Lebanon. Perhaps, as you walk these halls, you can almost smell the faint scent of cedar, a reminder of the enduring power of nature and the pursuit of knowledge. This university building stands as a quiet testament to the legacy of the majestic Cedar of Lebanon, a tree that has witnessed the passage of time and the unfolding of human history.