I have no doubt in my mind that this church, made entirely out of living trees, is unlike anything you've ever seen before. This inspiring structure was created by Barry Cox, combining the two things he loves most - trees and church. As a result, he created a masterpiece, so beautiful, you'll have to travel all the way to New Zealand to see it. |
Prior to creating this structure, he traveled throughout Europe and the Americas, studying churches - large and small, old and new. Upon heading back to New Zealand, he started 'Treelocations', a tree moving business that allows trees to be moved, roots and all, to a new location. He's even taken to re-homing trees on his own property, that would have otherwise been cut down. |
Once his Treelocations business was established, he began working on his next project - this church. The idea came to him out of the blue back in 2011. 'I walked out my back door one day and thought, 'that space needs a church' - and so it began,' he says. He built an iron frame and based his design on the churches he'd spent so many years studying. |
|
The walls of the church are of an Australian tea tree variety, with thick, lush foliage. To keep them in shape, Cox trims them every six weeks. The roof is made from cut-leaf alder - a deciduous tree that's flexible enough to be trained up along the iron frame. The foliage in these trees is sparse, which allows light inside. Inside, the church just contains pews and a marble altar, which he got from his family church in Shannon (where he grew up). On the outside, the structure is filled with hedges and flowers. |
Initially, the church was planned for Cox's own enjoyment. But, seeing that many of his friends and family were so curious to see it, he opened the Tree Church to the public at the beginning of this year. His nephew was the first to marry in it and soon, other couples followed suit - including couples who were not religious. |
See some incredible views of the living, breathing church here: |
For more information about the Tree Church and to view more images, click here. And to learn more about moving trees, check out Treelocation's Youtube Channel. |
H/T: viralnova.com |
You Have NEVER Seen a Bird Like This Before
Meet the king vulture, the most beautiful-looking scavenger bird on the planet.
This Self-Cooling Building Was Inspired By Termites
How do you cool a building without air conditioning? By mimicking termites…
15 of the Most Gorgeous Snake Species Around the World
Snakes can be so fascinating and yet so beautiful. Take a look at some of the most gorgeous ones on our planet.
Are These the Most Beautiful Streets in the World?
There's something so charming and beautiful about these streets that are surrounded by trees. Take a look at these stunning streets.
Step Inside Some of the World's Most Stunning Mosques
Mosques are a place of worship. They are places in which class, wealth, status and ethnicity disappear. Take a look at 10 of the world's most beautiful mosques.
China's Cherry Blossom Bloom is a Sight to Behold!
People all over the world usually associate cherry blossoms with spring in Japan, but China’s blooms are just as majestic! See for yourself!
These Rare and Riveting Pics Reveal Some Captivating Facts
The world is full of rare and unique things that we may have never seen before. Here is a look at 15 such pictures with fascinating stories.
Dogs Can Teach Us a Lot About Friendship...
While dogs may be man's best friend, dogs’ best friends are undoubtedly other dogs, as these adorable pictures go to show.
You Will Not Look At These 6 Historical Figures The Same
The rumors and myths of these historical figures are already considered facts. The truth, however, is completely different.
Watch This Couple Go Through 60 Years of Aging...
This young couple found out with some magical help from talented makeup artists. The results are remarkable, and the ending filled my eyes with tears.
Wish Someone a Lovely Day With This Great Song...
This uplifting song is going to make anyone's day, guaranteed!
Fascinating Facts About The Middle Ages You Never Knew
If you thought you had read everything about the Middle Ages in school, you are mistaken. Read these interesting facts from that era.
20th Century: The MOST Popular Breakfast of Every Decade
Breakfast shape-shifted quite a bit during the 20th century. Discover the most popular breakfast delicacy of every decade in this article
The USA 110 Years Ago... What Was It LIKE?
We take so much for granted in the modern world. Read through these astonishing facts and realize just how different life was in the US back in 1910.
Do You Know The Origins of These Common Phrases?
There are many phrases that we use in English that we never give a second thought to. Here are 9 common phrases with rather sinister origins.
11 of the Most Insanely Useful Websites on the Web
Believe it or not, there are tons of sites that offer useful free stuff. Here’s a look at a few of them.
8 Weird and Wacky Failed Inventions from the Past
Here is a look at some weird and wacky inventions from the past that never quite took off despite their innovativeness.
A Fascinating History of Clothing in the Ancient World
Ever wondered what fashion was like in the ancient world?
Want to Fool Your Own Brain? Have a Look at These Illusions
Optical Illusions That'll Make You Doubt Your Eyesight!
I Can't Wait to Try These Exciting Kitchen Inventions
Whether you like cooking of not, you'll surely appreciate these ingenious kitchen gadgets designed to make life easier.
How Many of These Extraordinary History Facts Do You Know?
We bet that you didn't learn these history facts at school.
The Eerie, Spiritual, and Sometimes Fun History of Masks
Let’s get to know some of the most famous masks in history and the civilizations that created them.
15 Lovely Christmas Quotes That Will Fill Your Heart with Joy
These beautiful Christmas are sayings everyone can be thankful for!
This Man Has Taken Refuge in an Airport for 19 Years
Meet Denis Luiz de Souza, a man who, because of unfortunate circumstances, has been living in an airport for about two decades.
We Got Hold of Some Rare Historical Pics. Want to See?
It’s time for another fascinating collection of historical photos.
Send An Affectionate Kiss to Someone You Love Today
To someone you love, a kiss can say a whole lot, and that's why we've put this adorable collection together for you. Share your affection with them today.
Watch This Genius Get Revenge on People Who Steal Packages
When a former NASA scientist decides to come up with a way to fight petty urban crime, you just know that the results are going to be outrageous!
13 Quirky Vintage Inventions That Should Be Brought Back
Check out these cool and quirky vintage inventions that could be useful to many of us today!
INTERACTIVE: 12 Fascinating Facts About Napoleon Bonaparte
Whether you're a history aficionado or a curious learner, these insights offer a unique glimpse into the man behind the legend of Napoleon.
10 Difficult Words in English Everyone Should Know
English has many difficult words with meanings that are nearly impossible to guess, which makes them super tough to remember. Here are 10 such words
These Practical Charts Will Make You More Knowledgeable
These charts, maps, and tables cover all kinds of topics - from health and geography to home design and cleaning tips. It’s a goldmine of practical knowledge!
These Naval Battles Changed the Course of History
History has been witness to some momentous naval battles. Here is a look at some of the greatest.
When Deaf People Hear for the Very First Time...
In this wonderful video, we will see the miracle of hearing given to several people who have been deaf.
The Art of War by Sun Tzu: A Beautiful Summary
Sun Tzu's the Art of War is still perhaps the greatest treatise on military strategy ever. This animated short explains the book in under 10 minutes.
Watch 1,000 People Got Their Eyesight Restored
A YouTuber helped sponsor the treatment of 1,000 blind people. Here are their reactions.
What People Need When the End Is Nigh: A Profound Talk
BJ Miller is a palliative care physician with some amazing insights. Discussing what happens to our thoughts as we pass away, he shares some profound thoughts.
Fact or Fiction? Debunking History's Most Common Myths
Update your knowledge of the Middle Ages by learning the truth behind these 12 common myths.
The True Scale of These Things Will Really Surprise You!
Did you know that there are actually a lot of things in our world that are far bigger in reality than most people would expect. Here of 20 of them.
The Mysterious City of Caesars and 4 Other Mythical Places
These fascinating, but lesser-known mythical cities have captivated the imaginations of people for centuries, learn about them yourself
These Theories On Reality Will Blow Your Mind
There are many crazy theories about the nature of reality, but some of them definitely outdo the others. Here are 10 mind-blowing theories about reality.
These 14 Photos Are All Remarkable For Different Reasons
There are some photos we come across that just compel us to take a second look, and these 14 are no exception. Take a look!
25 Incredible Facts About the Famous Genghis Khan
Genghis Khan struck fear into the hearts of his subjects during his reign, but there's a lot more to the man than meets the eye. Here are 25 intriguing facts.
26 Vintage Celebrity Photos Filled with Undeniable Charm
Let's take a look at 26 vintage photos filled with undeniable charm.
Monica Lewinsky: I Paid The Price of Shame...
We all connect the name Monica Lewinsky with shame, what is it like being the one at the other end of this story?
20 Unforgettable Last Words Spoken By Famous People
There’s something poignaant about reading famous last words.
10 of the Most Spectacular Royal Crowns in the World
Crowns have long been seen as a strong symbol of power and wealth. Here are some of the world's most recognized crowns and tiaras.
6 Creepy Mysteries the World Never Solved
There are some mysteries that, despite scientists’ best attempts, still remain unsolved to this day. Here are 6 such mysteries.