Encina Dehesa de San Francisco

The Dehesa de San Francisco Holm Oak Forest is a Natural Monument, located in the province of Huelva, in the southeast of the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Nature Park, at the entrance to Dehesa de San Francisco (owned by Fundación Monte Mediterráneo).

This holm oak is outstanding for its size and age, calculated between 400 and 500 years. It has a very thick trunk and a large canopy that provides delightful shade from the sun in summer. The fruit of this species, the acorn, is an excellent source of energy and during the ripening period they are the staple diet of the Iberian pig, a vital species for the local economy and culture.

The area around this Natural Monument has been partially modified by humans, who have made use of natural resources such as wood, cork and pastureland for livestock.