Tree of Europe

Bergkamen

Tree of Europe

Dietrich Worbs’ “Europe Tree” stands in the Jubiläumswald in Bergkamen-Mitte. It was created in 2013 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Élysée Treaty, which sealed the friendship between Germany and France after World War II. The artwork is two meters high and has a diameter of about 50 centimeters.

Materials from the Region

The sculpture is made from the trunk of an oak tree from Bergkamen. The artist combined the natural wood with modern metals, using stainless steel and zinc sheet. These materials protect the wood and add shiny accents. The choice of oak symbolizes durability and deep-rooted connections.

A Symbol of Unity

The names of Bergkamen’s sister cities are incorporated into the material. These include Gennevilliers in France, Hettstedt in Saxony-Anhalt, Silifke in Turkey, and Wieliczka in Poland. Next to the names are precise kilometer measurements. These figures indicate the geographical distance of the towns from Bergkamen.

Values in Four Languages

The European Tree bears important terms related to interpersonal relationships. The words “partnership,” “trust,” “friendship,” and “brotherhood” are engraved on it. They are written in all four national languages of the sister cities. In this way, the artwork serves as a reminder of Europe’s diversity. It calls for overcoming borders through dialogue and mutual understanding. The tree serves as a living monument to peace and international cooperation in an interconnected world.

Bergkamen

Tree of Europe