Nature

Bartek Oak

Zagnańsk’s natural landmark

Bartek Oak grows in Bartków near Zagnańsk, beside regional road 750 a few kilometres north of Kielce. This pedunculate oak is one of Poland’s best-known nature monuments. It is about 30 m tall, has a trunk circumference of roughly 9.85 m at 1.3 m above ground and a crown around 20–40 m wide. Its exact age is an estimate: modern regional sources give roughly 645–700 years, while local tradition claims more than a thousand.

What to see

The tree is surrounded by supports and protective measures that help carry its spreading limbs. Walk around it and read the information about its conservation history and the legend of King Jan III Sobieski. The story that the king hid wine and weapons in a hollow after the relief of Vienna is tradition, not a confirmed event. An educational path and playground operate across the road, making Bartek a useful short family stop.

Practical information

The oak is viewed outdoors; the monument itself does not operate like a museum with fixed visiting hours. Take care near the busy road and use the designated approach and pedestrian crossing. The new tourist complex beside Bartek, run by GOSiR Zagnańsk, was reported in September 2026 as open Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00–17:00; check the current offer before travelling. Allow 20–45 minutes for the oak, or combine it with the Zagnańsk–Bartków–Janaszów educational route and other regional sights.