Józef Oak

Józef Oak is a pedunculate oak located in the historic park in Wiśniowa, in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship. Its natural and cultural significance was recognized when it won first place in the 6th edition of the national Tree of the Year competition organized by the Klub Gaja. In 2017, the oak was also honored in a European competition, where it similarly achieved a top ranking. From a historical perspective, the oak holds special importance, as during World War II, two Jewish brothers, Paul and David Denholz, hid in its hollow, supported by Rozalia Proszak. Józef Oak is also a symbol of longevity and endurance, which was immortalized on the reverse of the 100-złoty banknote issued in 1932 and 1934, designed by Józef Mehoffer, which features an image of this tree. Its presence in the public sphere highlights not only its natural value but also the cultural aspects tied to the region’s history and national symbols. Thus, Józef Oak is not only a natural monument but also a significant element of Poland’s cultural heritage.