The Iter Vitis Cultural Route proudly welcomes the Oldest Vine Museum as a new member, strengthening the network of destinations that celebrate Europe’s rich viticultural heritage.
Situated in the historic Lent district of Maribor, the museum is dedicated to one of the most extraordinary living monuments of wine culture: the world’s oldest grapevine (Žametovka or Modra kavčina). Planted in the late Middle Ages, more than 400 years ago, this vine is officially recognized as the oldest in the world still producing grapes.
A Symbol of Resilience and Living Heritage
The story of the Old Vine is inseparable from the history of Maribor itself. Over the centuries, the vine has endured wars, fires, the devastating phylloxera epidemic, and even World War II bombings—yet it continues to grow and bear fruit each year.
This remarkable resilience has transformed the vine into a global symbol of perseverance, cultural identity, and continuity. Its grafts have been shared worldwide as a sign of friendship and cooperation, extending its legacy far beyond Slovenia.
The Museum Experience
The Oldest Vine Museum offers visitors an immersive journey through centuries of wine tradition. Through exhibitions, multimedia installations, and storytelling, the museum presents not only the history of the vine itself but also the broader development of Maribor as a key viticultural centre in the Štajerska region.
Visitors can experience curated programmes such as:
- Date with Heritage – an intimate encounter with wine traditions and local culture
- Neighbours of the Oldest Vine – connecting visitors with local artisans, storytellers, and the living cultural fabric of the city
The experience is complemented by wine tastings and encounters with the region’s gastronomy, making it a holistic cultural and sensory journey.
Strengthening the Iter Vitis Network
By joining Iter Vitis, the Oldest Vine Museum contributes a unique dimension to the Cultural Route: a living heritage site that bridges centuries of European history, tradition, and identity.
Its inclusion reinforces Iter Vitis’ mission to promote sustainable cultural tourism rooted in authenticity, knowledge, and community engagement—values embodied by the Old Vine itself.
As both a symbol and a living organism, the Old Vine continues to connect people, cultures, and generations—just as Iter Vitis connects wine heritage across Europe.