The Ginko tree at Slomškov trg is the seconf thickest in Slovenia, standing proudly as living fossil with rich history.
When walking in Slomškov trg in Maribor, you can't help yourself but to stop and admire a tree that looks like it's straight out of a storybook. That's the majestic Ginko tree, koown locally as the ''tree with duck legs'' or the ''silver apprcot''. Standin proudly in front of the Slovenian National Theatre, this tee is a true city icon. It's not just a tree, it's a gathering spor for birds, with locals often seen feeding the pegions beneath its sprawling branches.
This Ginko is the second largest in Slovenia, with a trunk circumference of 450cm, as of 2021. It's thought to have been planted in 1891, around the same time the park was developed. Ginkgo trees are living fossils, meaning they’ve been around for millions of years – over 250 million to be exact! They’ve survived ice ages, the extinction of mammoths, and even nuclear blasts. What’s even cooler is that they were kept alive in Buddhist temple gardens, which helped preserve the species.
The Ginkgo’s unique, fan-shaped leaves and its ability to endure all kinds of challenges make it a true survivor, just like Maribor itself. Whether you’re sitting on a bench in the park, watching the fountain, or just soaking in the green space, the Ginkgo is a timeless part of the city’s landscape.