Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) grows in the old town on Lent, beside the Drava river, against the façade of the house at Vojašniška ulica 8. It is one of Maribor’s most recognisable sights and a symbol of its wine heritage.
Discover Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine), a Guinness record holder on Maribor’s Lent. Explore its story, wine and descendants.
Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) grows on Lent in Maribor. It is more than 450 years old and still bears grapes. Its remarkable age and importance to the city’s wine heritage make it one of Maribor’s most recognisable sights.
Why Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) is unique
Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) has been listed in Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest grapevine since 2004. Scientific research has confirmed its age, and today it is protected as a valuable part of Maribor’s and Slovenia’s cultural heritage.
The vine grows against the façade of a house on Lent, close to the Drava river. You can see it from outside while strolling through this part of the city. To discover more of its story, complement your visit with the experiences offered at Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) and its wine shop.
Žametovka, also known as modra kavčina
Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) belongs to the žametovka variety, also known as modra kavčina. This is one of Slovenia’s oldest domesticated noble grape varieties. Its grapes have a bluish colour, and because of the vine’s age and ceremonial importance, its harvest is reserved for special purposes.
On average, the vine produces around 35 to 55 kilograms of grapes a year. The amount depends on the vintage and growing conditions, so its yield cannot be compared with ordinary vineyard production.
A grapevine that has survived the centuries
The long history of Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) is also a story of resilience and careful protection. It has survived Ottoman incursions, city fires, phylloxera and the bombing of Maribor. Despite the changes in the city, it has remained in the same place, preserved as a living monument to the wine tradition.
Experts monitor its growth and health. The city’s vine keeper also plays an important role, taking care of pruning, protection and other tasks throughout the year.
From the grape harvest to ceremonial wine
The harvest of Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) is a traditional city event. Its limited crop produces a small quantity of special wine, bottled in small ceremonial bottles. These are not intended for regular sale; the city presents them as gifts on selected official occasions.
A visit therefore offers insight into the symbolic importance of a single vine, linking the city’s history, winegrowing expertise and Maribor’s present-day wine offering.
Experiences at Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine)
At the wine shop of Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine), you can explore more than 200 wine labels from over 50 local winemakers. Guided tastings and presentations introduce visitors to the characteristics of Styrian wines and the destination’s wider wine story. Interactive and virtual experiences complement the offering.
As the times of tastings, guided visits and other programmes may change, check the current offering before you arrive. Advance booking is advisable for groups, allowing the organiser to adapt the visit to the number of participants and their interests.
Descendants of Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine)
Over the years, cuttings from Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) have been presented to many places in Slovenia and abroad. Its descendants spread the story of Maribor’s vine around the world, creating connections between cities, institutions and winegrowing regions.
In 2016, a vineyard with 500 grafted vines descended from Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) was planted at the foot of Kalvarija in Maribor. You can therefore extend the story from the city centre with a walk among Maribor’s vineyards and views over the city.
Plan your visit
Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) is located at Vojašniška ulica 8 on Lent in Maribor.
Include an outdoor view of the vine in a walk along the Drava river and through the old town.
Check the current opening hours before visiting the indoor spaces.
Arrange a guided tasting or group visit in advance.
Combine your visit with exploring Lent, the city’s squares and other wine experiences in Maribor.
Frequently asked questions
Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) is more than 450 years old and has been listed in Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest grapevine since 2004. Despite its great age, it still bears grapes.
Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) is a žametovka, also known as modra kavčina, one of Slovenia’s oldest domesticated noble grape varieties. It produces around 35 to 55 kg of grapes a year, used to make a limited quantity of ceremonial wine.
Visitors can discover the vine’s story and Maribor’s wine heritage, visit the wine shop of Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine), take part in tastings and guided tours, and explore the content through interactive and virtual experiences. The wine shop offers more than 200 wine labels from over 50 local winemakers.
Descendants of Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) grow in many places across Slovenia and around the world. In 2016, a vineyard with 500 grafted vines descended from Najstarejša trta (World’s oldest grapevine) was also planted beside Kalvarija in Maribor.
Local