Old Plane Tree of Prizren
The Old Plane Tree of Prizren, known locally as Rrapi i Marashit, is Kosovo’s living monument of memory, a 575-year-old Oriental plane whose vast canopy and riverside roots have shaded generations, inspired legends, and anchored the soul of the Marash neighborhood.
The Story
Believed to have germinated around 1450 ± 50, the Old Plane Tree has witnessed centuries of Prizren’s history from Ottoman rule and Balkan wars to Kosovo’s independence. Locals tell legends of its divine planting, and elders like Zijadin Azizi, who has visited the tree daily for over 90 years, recall school trips and community gatherings beneath its branches (Telegrafi.com).
Known scientifically as Platanus orientalis, the tree is part of a species revered across the Balkans for its longevity and resilience. Its massive trunk and sprawling canopy have made it a symbol of endurance and peace.
The tree is protected as a natural monument, and its location beside the Bistrica River enhances its appeal as a scenic and contemplative spot. Visitors often sit beneath it to enjoy the breeze, reflect on history, or simply pause during a walking tour of Prizren.
Rrapi i Marashit is more than a tree it’s a civic elder, a poetic anchor, and a living witness to Kosovo’s evolving story.
Insider Tips
Last update
Nov 30, 2025
Admission: Free public access
Photography: Best in spring and autumn; wide-angle shots capture its full canopy
Open Hours: Always accessible; popular in the early morning and late afternoon
Alternate Names: Rrapi i Marashit, Marash Plane Tree
Getting There: Located in Marash, just steps from the Old Stone Bridge and Sinan Pasha Mosque; walkable from all central landmarks
