Meriküla pine

The Meriküla pine is one of the most well-known and symbolic natural objects in the vicinity of Narva-Jõesuu. This protected ancient tree grows in Hiie­metsa under the North Estonian klint and is recognizable by its unusual, wide crown.

The pine was protected under nature conservation law as early as 1938. For centuries, it has been regarded as a tree of special significance, visited for important events and rituals. Nails were driven into the tree, ribbons were tied to its branches, and offerings were left, in the hope of protection and luck — customs typical of many sacred sites in Estonia.

According to some sources, the tree is also associated with the artist Ivan Shishkin, who spent time in the Narva and Meriküla area. The tree's powerful form has led to the name "Shishkin's Pine," although there is no direct historical confirmation of this.

Today, the Meriküla pine is an important natural and heritage site. The tree's height is approximately 12–15 meters, and the trunk circumference is about 3.5 meters. It is a living testament to the area's natural and cultural history.