Thuringian Christmas tree felled for Brandenburg Gate
An approximately 19-metre-high coastal fir tree from eastern Thuringia will decorate the Brandenburg Gate and Pariser Platz in Berlin during the Christmas season. The approximately 30-year-old conifer from the state forest was felled on Saturday in Mohlsdorf-Teichwolframsdorf (Greiz district), according to the state forestry office. The operation in snow and wintry temperatures went off without a hitch. "Everything went well, the tree is perfect," said a spokesperson for the state forestry office.
This is probably the ninth time in a row since 2015 that the most photographed German Christmas tree in front of Berlin's landmark has come from the Free State. "Our tree in Berlin has become a cherished tradition," said Forestry Minister Susanna Karawanskij (Left Party). A piece of Thuringia shines in the capital at Christmas time.
It should be cone-shaped, fully needled, free of wood defects and between 15 and 23 meters high at the most: "A tree - if it wants to become Germany's most prominent Christmas tree - has to meet the very highest standards, not only in terms of appearance but also stability," explained Thuringia Forestry Director Volker Gebhardt.
The coastal fir was carefully lifted onto a low-loader using a heavy-duty crane to ensure that the branches and, above all, the crown remained undamaged. The tree is to be transported to Berlin this Monday and erected by the technical relief organization on the same day, according to reports. Six decorators will then need almost a whole week to decorate the tree with 15,000 energy-saving bulbs and hundreds of Christmas baubles.
The felled Thuringian Christmas tree, originating from the state forest's forestry, will be showcased at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate and Pariser Platz, marking the ninth year in a row. This tradition, cherished by Forestry Minister Susanna Karawanskij, ensures a piece of Thuringia's charm graces the capital during Christmastime.
Source: www.dpa.com
