More than 40,000 inhabitants of the Ledro Valley, in Italy, joined forces to oppose a tradition of the Vatican that involves the felling of a 200-year-old fir tree, known as the "green giant." This 30-meter high tree has withstood wars and snowstorms throughout the years, becoming a symbol in the region.
Residents of the Ledro Valley expressed their desire to preserve this historic fir and have requested Pope Francis to reconsider the decision to use it as the Christmas tree in St. Peter's Square. Through a letter, they implored His Holiness to visit the Valley and experience the natural beauty of the fir firsthand, suggesting the creation of a permanent artistic installation using wood from fallen trees instead.
In addition to the letter, a petition has been launched on Change.org that already has 40,000 signatures, and legal advice is being sought to try to block the felling of the fir. The inhabitants of the region propose that an artistic installation inspired by similar creations becomes a lasting symbol of the Vatican's commitment to ecological renewal, in line with Pope Francis's environmental messages.
In response to this situation, the residents of the Ledro Valley have pointed out that protecting the environment means challenging outdated traditions and have invoked Pope Francis's words about respecting nature in his encyclicals. The local community hopes to preserve the "green giant" as a testament to the importance of preserving nature and history.
