The Miracle Pine

Photo: Kyodo News/AP

Two years ago, the 2011 tsunami killed over 19,000 people and devastated many more lives. In the city of Rikuzentakata, the tsunami ripped apart over 70,000 pine trees along the coast ... but one survived.

The Miracle Pine, before the tsunami - via Rikuzentakata City FB page

Photo: Kyodo News/AP - via NBC News Photoblog

A lone tree, since named the Miracle Pine, rose from the rubbles, symbolizing the hope of the nation. But the seawater had irreversibly damaged the tree's roots and it was dying.

At the end of the day, the city decided to cut the tree down and dissected its branches in order to preserve it against decay. The tree is being reassembled on a carbon spine and will be reborn as a monument to commemorate the victims of the disaster.

For centuries, the pine trees of Rikuzentakata has protected the city from harsh winds. The city has finally returned the favor by preserving the last, defiant tree.

(Photo: Warren Antiola/Flickr)

Via designboom