Meet Stara Trta, the world's oldest vine and Maribor's coolest celebrity.
Planted way back in the 17th century, this legendary grapevine has outlived wars, rulers and even the Ottoman Empire's heyday. It is even a certified Guinness World Records holder. Imagine the stories it could tell. It stood tall while medieval Maribor Bustled inside fortified city walls, fending off invaders and evolving into the lively city we know today.
Stara Trta has weathered it all: battles, natural disasters and the challenges of urban life. Talk about a survivor!Its roots go deep - not just in the soil, but in the heart of Maribor's culture, symbolizing the resilience of its people and their love for the land.
Every autumn, the vine gets a royal treatment. Grapes are harvested with great fanfare in a traditional ceremony that's like a time machine, connecting modern winemaking to centuries-old practices. The tiny amount of wine it produces isn't for sale, instead, it's gifted like a treasure to special guests and institutions, spreading Maribor's rich heritage far and wide.
Today, Stara Trta takes center stage in the Roots of Time project, where its incredible story continues to inspire. More than a vine, it's a time-travelling legend, reminding us that even the smallest things, lke a grapevine, can carry the weight of history.