In a peaceful corner of the oldest botanical garden in France, located in Montpellier, stands a tree full of stories and hopes. This broad-leaved relative of the olive tree has watched over visitors for 400 years and is said to grant their dearest wishes. This tree is affectionately called "the wish tree", "the message tree", or even "the mailbox for lovers".
A tree synonymous with hope and dreams
Just take a look at its time-worn branches to understand: tucked away in the cracks of its bark are dozens of little papers, carefully slipped in by wandering dreamers. For decades, passersby have been leaving their wishes here. In the past, many couples secretly exchanged sweet nothings among its sturdy branches. Today, the tree has broadened its role and welcomes all kinds of hopes, from the most poetic to the most practical.
Speaking of this legend, which of course has never been proven true, many Montpellier residents and tourists indulge in the tradition: placing a little note among the branches of the impressive tree. From love declarations to the dearest and most sincere wishes, you’ll find everything there, though no one will ever reveal the content of the messages. But what happens to these little pieces of paper once the tree is full? “Let’s just say that it’s the Occitanie elves who take care of it,” the gardener shares with a mysterious smile in comments collected by Le Parisien. A touch of magic never hurts...