Maribor, Slovenia
Maribor - Home Of The Oldest Vine In The World
Born In The 12th Century
A small settlement from the 12th century, Maribor, Slovenia, has since been a battle ground between opposing empires and faiths. Shifting from Habsburg to German and later Yugoslavian control, Maribor and Slovenia finally regained sovereignty in 1991.
Throughout its tumultuous past, Maribor experienced periods of prosperity, most notably due to its strategic location on the Drava River and its wine production, dating back to the 14th century. Unfortunately, much of this came at the expense of it’s Jewish citizens, as many were expelled by German powers, along with citizens of all ethnicities, who fell victim to frequent wars during the 16th to 18th centuries.
The Industrial Revolution
During the Industrial Revolution of 18th century, Maribor played an important role along the new trade route and railway line from Vienna to Trieste, Italy. The Habsburg’s improved infrastructure and subsequently birthed new industry that helped put Maribor back on the map.
This lasted until WWI, when the city broke free from German Austrian control and joined the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes. That was until the city’s Nazi occupation during WWII. Nearly half of Maribor was destroyed during WWII and many native Slovenes were exiled or killed. This marked the darkest period for the city and region of Štajerska.
Yugoslavia
Post-war, as a part of Yugoslavia, Maribor regained its strength and economic power, in exchange for freedom, under forced socialism. Unfortunately, along with Slovenia’s long-fought independence in 1991, came economic destruction. Without a fixed stable market, Maribor lost much of wealth and importance.
Entry Into the European Union
Today however, with much attention paid to revitalization, as well as Slovenia’s entrance to the EU in 2004, Maribor is on the road to recovery. It was named European city of culture in 2012 and has been constantly improving ever since.
Wine tourism, and Maribor’s prized, 450 year old vine (Stara Trta), proudly sit at the center of Maribor’s revival. Celebrated annually during September’s Old Vine Festival, the grapevine is a symbol of resilience and strength that permeates throughout the Styrian culture and its great people.
Eat in Maribor
Slovenia is a hidden paradise for food lovers, whether vegetarian or carnivore. While the capital of Ljubljana may have more well known, high-end restaurants, Maribor has a great selection of fine dining and casual places to eat local and international dishes.
For a special occasion and a night you will not soon forget, head to Gostlina Mak. Across the river from the historic old town of Maribor, this unassuming tavern is anything but that. From the moment you enter the minimal, nearly nordic style dining room, you realize this isn’t your typical dining experience.
The focal point of the room is none other than a large round table of local wines waiting to greet each guest. Hunting lodge decor and musical instruments adorn the corners of the room, the latter of which are not just for show.
The house musician emerges from the downstairs dining room playing upbeat folk music on his vintage accordion. The musical theater vibe continues to surprise and delight throughout the night as inventive and delicious courses and wine pairings are served.
For a casual meal at any time of day, stop by Fudo in the historic center of Maribor. Open from 8am to midnight, Fudo offers local baked goods, healthy salads, fish, pasta dishes and more. Portions are great and their fusion flavors far exceed the reasonable price points. They also feature Slovenian wines, beers and cocktails to help familiarize yourself with eastern Slovenian culture.
Another place to grab breakfast, snack or burger is Kavarna Isabella, also in the center of town. Great coffee, friendly service and a variety of dishes makes this place a local favorite, any day of the week.
If you’re in the mood for a hearty and lively Bosnian meal, make a reservation at the always crowded Etno hiša Baščaršija, just steps away from the aforementioned restaurants. This place has quick service, big portions and tons of atmosphere. Don’t come here for a romantic dinner however, as it can get quite loud due to all the groups it attracts. If you’re craving burgers and BBQ head to the always-happening, Jack & Joe Steak and Burger Club.
Drink in Maribor
Wine lovers need not look further than LeVino Wine Bar. A family-run bar, LeVino offers a wide variety of Slovenian wines, including many organic and biodynamic wines from tiny, family producers. They also sell their own natural wines from their own property. Friendly service, great wines and fantastic music are only a few reasons to visit LeVino. Once you do, you won’t want to leave.
For drinks and local wines with a view, check out Mačka or Vinoteka Maribor, both located on the Drava river. On a clear day, you can venture up to rooftop bar LUFT 360, for a great view of the city and river. Prices, of course, are also a bit elevated! If you’re into beer, you can check out The Living Room or Kavarnika Rokaj for a choice of craft and international beers.
Explore in Maribor
If you can make the trip to Maribor, do not leave without doing a wine tour with Jernej of Big Guys Wine Tours. Jernej is a highly educated sommelier with a passion for natural wines, Slovenia and practicing conservation in every aspect of life.
He will customize your tour to suit your needs or take the reigns and design a tour to give you a sample of all types of winemaking in the Maribor area. Throughout the day, he will share his incredible wealth of knowledge and make you fall in love with the local wines, just as he has. Stay tuned for our forthcoming Štajerska wine region review!
In town, make sure to stop at the Old Vine House museum to taste local wines, get a crash course in the city’s history and see the oldest vine in the world. If doing a tour with Jernej, he may include this as a stop as well.
In good weather, check out Mestni Park, where you can walk and bike around the park’s lakes, churches and historical landmarks. Museum buffs shouldn’t miss the Museum of National Liberation, and soccer fans can catch a NK Maribor match at The Stadium Ljudski Vrt.
Stay in Maribor
Maribor is a compact city, making it easy to pick a place to stay. Anywhere in the historic downtown zone around the Stolna Cathedral.
The Hotel City Maribor or the Mercure Maribor City Center are great choices, while the 4Rooms apartments provide a nice and economic option. All can be reached by foot or taxi from the central train station.
If you’re really short on time, you can also day-trip to Maribor from Ljubljana, only a 2 hour train ride away!
