Text: Levente Béla Haleczky, Dániel Komes, Albert Fekete PhD, DLA

The study investigates the historical phases of street tree planting in Budapest and the role of historic tree-lined streets in shaping cityscape, urban character and atmosphere. Urban tree alleys, as elements of green infrastructure, define spatial structure, deliver diverse ecosystem services, and support physical and mental well-being. Beyond these benefits, they also hold strong visual and symbolic value by shaping the streetscape and contributing to the city’s “genius loci”. The article reviews the structural and identity-forming roles of tree-lined streets, considering how tree species characteristics influence spatial perception. It provides a brief overview of urban afforestation in major European cities and Budapest, clarifying the terms “historic tree-lined street” and “historical tree species.” Based on statistical data, it reinterprets the phases of urban tree planting in the capital and identifies the most common tree species. The aim of the authors is to highlight the cultural and visual significance of historic urban tree avenues and to highlight the importance of their preservation and restoration in contemporary urban landscape design.