Bulgaria is home to Baikushev’s Pine, an ancient tree that has been growing since 681 AD.

Baikushev’s Pine (Pinus heldreichii) is located in the Pirin National Park near the town of Bansko, Bulgaria. It was discovered in 1897 by the forest ranger Kostadin Baikushev, who the tree is named after. Dendrochronological studies have confirmed its age at approximately 1,350 years, making it one of the oldest coniferous trees in the world.The tree's germination around 681 AD coincides with the year Khan Asparuh established the First Bulgarian Empire after the Battle of Ongal. Standing at an elevation of 1,930 meters, the tree has developed incredible structural integrity to withstand the high-altitude environment. Its trunk diameter is roughly 2.48 meters, and its massive root system provides stability against the steep mountain terrain.Bosnian pines are known for their extreme longevity and resistance to rot and fungal infections. This specific specimen has survived numerous forest fires and severe climatic shifts throughout the Middle Ages and the modern era. Today, it is a strictly protected natural monument and a major symbol of Bulgarian natural heritage. Researchers continue to monitor its health as a living record of the region's historical climate data.