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Tree Communication Efforts: Conserving the Environment in Safranbolu, Turkey

Ancient tree in Turkey serves as a poignant, living apology, its lifeless form still resonating with power; it underscores the persistence of hope and history amidst devastation.

Tree's Voice Echoes: Conserving Nature in Turkey's Safranbolu
Tree's Voice Echoes: Conserving Nature in Turkey's Safranbolu

Tree Communication Efforts: Conserving the Environment in Safranbolu, Turkey

In the heart of Turkey's historic Karabük province lies Safranbolu, a village that feels like a living book, with its streets telling stories of a bygone era. This enchanting village, preserved with care for both history and the environment, was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1994.

Walking through its cobblestone streets, one can't help but feel as if they've traveled through time. Numerous historical structures and artifacts line the streets, each with a story to tell. The old houses have not been stifled by new constructions, and traditional utensils, swords, and knives are still sold in the local markets.

In a unique conversation, the author had the pleasure of speaking with Selim Yorulmaz, a Ney player from Safranbolu who shared his love for Indian songs and singers. The village's rich cultural heritage is evident in such encounters.

However, not all news from Safranbolu is positive. A centuries-old tree, a symbol of the village's history and resilience, died after 350 years. An environmental activist group placed a plaque beside the tree, expressing regret and questioning the group's inability to protect it. The tree was subsequently transformed into a wooden statue by a philanthropist, and a young sapling now grows from its roots.

Contrastingly, in India's capital, Delhi, more than 50,000 trees were felled as part of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project in 2021. This unfortunate event was revealed through the Right to Information Act (RTI).

In another part of India, a 600-year-old Cinar (plane tree) stands in the village of Inkaya, Bursa, Turkey, celebrated for its strength, grandeur, and beauty.

In Safranbolu, two musicians played a haunting Turkish melody in 400-year-old hidden tunnels, while a craftsman was observed forging swords, reminiscent of a childhood scene in India. These instances serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural and natural heritage.

The author expresses hope that the 'dead' tree in Safranbolu will one day regain life and return to its former state of providing shade and sharing in community celebrations. After all, as the village of Safranbolu continues to stand as a testament to history, so too can the memories of its once-thriving tree.

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