Enchanting Lent: The Heartbeat of Maribor

Discover Lent in Maribor, Slovenia: A captivating blend of medieval history, vibrant festivals, and riverside charm. Explore the oldest neighborhood in Maribor today.

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Nestled along the serene banks of the Drava River, Lent is the oldest and most picturesque neighborhood in Maribor, Slovenia's second-largest city. This historic quarter is a treasure trove of medieval charm, boasting cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and a vibrant cultural scene that beckons travelers from around the globe. Stroll through Lent and you'll encounter the majestic Water Tower and the imposing Judgement Tower, both standing as silent sentinels of the city's rich past. The Old Vine House is another must-see landmark, home to the world's oldest vine, which has been producing grapes for over 400 years. This remarkable piece of living history is celebrated annually with the Old Vine Festival, a lively event featuring wine tastings, music, and traditional Slovenian entertainment. Lent is not just about history; it is also a hub of contemporary culture. The annual Lent Festival transforms the neighborhood into a bustling stage for performing arts, attracting artists and audiences from near and far. From open-air concerts to street theater and dance performances, the festival offers a vibrant tapestry of experiences for visitors of all ages. As you explore Lent, you'll discover an array of quaint cafes, inviting restaurants, and charming boutiques. Whether you're savoring a cup of coffee by the river, indulging in local Slovenian cuisine, or shopping for unique souvenirs, Lent provides a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. The neighborhood's friendly atmosphere and scenic beauty make it an unforgettable destination for any traveler.

Local tips in Lent

Visit the Old Vine House to see the world's oldest vine and enjoy a wine tasting session.
Time your visit during the Lent Festival to experience the neighborhood's lively cultural events.
Take a leisurely walk along the Drava River for stunning views and photo opportunities.
Explore the local cafes and restaurants for a taste of traditional Slovenian cuisine.
Don't miss the Water Tower and Judgement Tower for a glimpse into Maribor's medieval history.

File:LentFestival1.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:House of the oldest grapevine in the world (Hiša stare trte) in Maribor.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:The Drava river and Maribor.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Sodni stolp - Maribor.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Maribor Castle 02.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Slovenia-00381B - Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (9234685724).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Glavni trg Maribor 2021.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Maribor Vodni Stolp 20070107.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Plague Column

Discover the resilience and history of Maribor at the Plague Column, a stunning Baroque landmark in the heart of Slovenia's vibrant main square.

Trg Leona Štuklja

Explore Trg Leona Štuklja, Maribor's picturesque park, a serene escape with lush greenery and cultural charm in the heart of Slovenia.

Stolna župnija Maribor

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Stolna Župnija Maribor, a stunning cathedral that embodies Slovenia's spiritual and artistic heritage.

Lent

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Lent, Maribor - home to ancient grapevines and the famous Lent Festival.

Festivalna dvorana Lent, Maribor Slovenia

Explore the vibrant cultural scene at Festivalna Dvorana Lent, Maribor's premier venue for concerts, festivals, and artistic celebrations.

Spomenik NOB

Explore the poignant history of Maribor at the Monument of National Liberation, a stunning tribute to freedom and resilience in Slovenia.

Sodni stolp

Discover the historic Sodni Stolp in Maribor, a medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views and insights into Slovenia's rich cultural heritage.

Main Square

Experience the vibrant culture and history at Maribor's Main Square, a must-visit destination in Slovenia's stunning second-largest city.

Trije Angeli

Discover Trije Angeli in Maribor, Slovenia – a serene tourist attraction showcasing stunning monuments and rich cultural heritage.

Spomenik miru

Discover the Spomenik miru in Maribor, a powerful monument symbolizing peace, resilience, and remembrance in Slovenia's rich historical landscape.

Unmissable attractions to see

Vodni stolp - Water Tower

Explore the Vodni Stolp in Maribor: A historic Water Tower offering stunning views and local beverages, perfect for a cultural experience.

Akvarij-terarij Maribor

Explore the mesmerizing aquatic and terrestrial worlds at Akvarij-terarij Maribor, Slovenia's premier aquarium attraction for families and nature lovers.

Lent

Explore Lent, Maribor's historic district with stunning architecture, the world's oldest grapevines, and vibrant cultural festivals along the Drava River.

Stari Most

Discover the charm of Stari Most, Maribor's historic bridge, offering stunning views, vibrant culture, and rich heritage along the Drava River.

Sodni stolp

Explore the majestic Sodni Stolp, Maribor's historic fortress offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Slovenia's rich cultural heritage.

Pokrajinski muzej Maribor

Explore the cultural gems of Maribor at the Pokrajinski muzej, where history, art, and nature come together in a vibrant showcase of Slovenia's heritage.

Fontana na Glavnem trgu

Discover the beauty and charm of Fontana na Glavnem trgu, a stunning fountain in the heart of Maribor, Slovenia, surrounded by vibrant city life.

Essential places to dine

Jack & Joe Steak and Burger Club

Discover culinary excellence at Jack & Joe Steak and Burger Club in Maribor, where every bite is crafted to perfection.

LUFT fun dining & cocktails

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at LUFT Fun Dining & Cocktails in Maribor—where modern cuisine meets lively atmosphere.

Gril Ranca, gostinstvo in druge storitve d.o.o.

Discover the flavors of Slovenia at Gril Ranca in Maribor – where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions.

Novi Svet

Experience the finest seafood dishes in Maribor at Novi Svet - where freshness meets flavor in a delightful dining atmosphere.

RESTAVRACIJA GALA ŽAR Denis Curović s.p.?

Savor authentic Serbian dishes at Restavracija Gala Žar in Maribor – where tradition meets modern dining.

Fudo

Discover Fudo in Maribor - where local flavors meet modern cuisine in a charming setting.

Pri Florjanu

Savor the flavors of Eastern Europe at Pri Florjanu - A must-visit restaurant in Maribor offering traditional cuisine and warm hospitality.

Hotel Lent

Experience culinary delights and cozy accommodations at Hotel Lent in Maribor – your perfect getaway destination.

Restavracija Terasa

Discover the best of Slovenian cuisine at Restavracija Terasa in Maribor – where every meal comes with breathtaking views.

Restaurant MARIBOR

Discover authentic Slovenian cuisine at Restaurant MARIBOR – where local flavors meet exceptional dining experiences.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Shopping center Europark Maribor

Explore the vibrant Shopping Center Europark Maribor for a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in Slovenia's second-largest city.

Supernova Qlandia Maribor

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Supernova Qlandia Maribor, where retail therapy meets delightful dining and entertainment.

Supernova Maribor Tržaška

Explore Supernova Maribor Tržaška, a vibrant shopping hub in Slovenia offering diverse boutiques, dining, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

STOP SHOP Maribor

Experience shopping and dining like never before at STOP SHOP Maribor, a vibrant mall offering a blend of local and international brands.

Obsession d.o.o., storitveno podjetje, Ljubljana, poslovna enota Freak Chick

Discover high-quality outdoor clothing and equipment at Obsession d.o.o. in Maribor, your go-to destination for adventure gear.

Kauf-Park Maribor

Explore Kauf-Park Maribor, Slovenia's vibrant shopping mall, featuring diverse stores, delightful dining, and family-friendly entertainment options.

SLOVENSKI ZAKLADI, Simona Dušak s.p.

Explore Slovenski Zakladi in Maribor for authentic Slovenian gifts, showcasing local craftsmanship and culture.

Maribor

Discover Maribor, Slovenia's charming second city, where history meets culture amidst stunning landscapes and delightful vineyards.

Quiksilver Maribor

Discover the ultimate shopping destination at Quiksilver Maribor, where stylish clothing meets the adventurous spirit of Slovenia.

Venera shop - Sex shop Maribor

Explore Venera Shop in Maribor for a diverse selection of erotic gifts and unique massage services, enhancing intimacy and pleasure.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

LUFT fun dining & cocktails

Experience the vibrant LUFT Fun Dining & Cocktails in Maribor, where stunning views meet innovative cuisine and exquisite cocktails.

Mačka

Discover Mačka, Maribor's cozy bar on Lent, where great drinks and warm ambiance create unforgettable moments.

Niagara cocktail bar

Experience the essence of Maribor's nightlife at Niagara Cocktail Bar, where creative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await you.

Piranha Cocktail Bureau

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Maribor at Piranha Cocktail Bureau, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.

Holmes Pub

Experience the perfect blend of local charm and global flavors at Holmes Pub in Maribor, Slovenia.

The Living Room

Experience the warm ambiance of The Living Room in Maribor - a cozy pub, bar, and coffee shop perfect for relaxation and socializing.

English Pub

Discover the lively English Pub in Maribor, a perfect blend of local flavors and friendly ambiance, ideal for tourists seeking relaxation and fun.

LeVino Wine Bar

Experience the essence of Maribor's wine culture at LeVino Wine Bar, a cozy haven for wine lovers with an exceptional selection and inviting atmosphere.

Rooster Lent

Discover Rooster Lent in Maribor, a lively bar offering mixed drinks, local wines, and craft beers in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

Pristan Maribor Lent

Discover the lively ambiance of Pristan Maribor Lent, a riverside bar offering a delightful selection of drinks and stunning views in Maribor.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Lent

Discover Lent with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloŽivjo
  [Zhee-vyoh]
- GoodbyeNasvidenje
  [Nah-svee-deh-nyeh]
- YesDa
  [Dah]
- NoNe
  [Neh]
- Please/You're welcomeProsim
  [Proh-seem]
- Thank youHvala
  [Hvah-lah]
- Excuse me/SorryOprostite
  [Oh-proh-stee-teh]
- How are you?Kako ste?
  [Kah-koh steh?]
- Fine. And you?V redu. In vi?
  [V reh-doo. Een vee?]
- Do you speak English?Ali govorite angleško?
  [Ah-lee goh-voh-ree-teh ahn-gleh-shkoh?]
- I don't understandNe razumem
  [Neh rah-zoo-mehm]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseRad bi videl jedilnik, prosim
  [Raad bee vee-del yeh-deel-neek, proh-seem]
- I don't eat meatNe jem mesa
  [Neh yehm meh-sah]
- Cheers!Na zdravje!
  [Nah zdrahv-yeh!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseRad bi plačal, prosim
  [Raad bee plah-chahl, proh-seem]
- Help!Pomoč!
  [Poh-mohch!]
- Go away!Pojdite stran!
  [Poh-jdee-teh strahn!]
- Call the Police!Pokličite policijo!
  [Poh-klee-chee-teh poh-lee-tsee-yoh!]
- Call a doctor!Pokličite zdravnika!
  [Poh-klee-chee-teh zdrahv-nee-kah!]
- I'm lostIzgubil sem se
  [Eez-goo-beel sehm seh]
- I'm illBolna sem
  [Bohl-nah sehm]
- I'd like to buy...Rad bi kupil...
  [Raad bee koo-peel...]
- I'm just lookingSamo gledam
  [Sah-moh gleh-dahm]
- How much is it?Koliko stane?
  [Koh-lee-koh stah-neh?]
- That's too expensiveTo je predrago
  [Toh yeh preh-drah-goh]
- Can you lower the price?Lahko znižate ceno?
  [Lah-koh znee-zah-teh tseh-noh?]
- What time is it?Koliko je ura?
  [Koh-lee-koh yeh oo-rah?]
- It's one o'clockJe ena ura
  [Yeh eh-nah oo-rah]
- Half past (10)Pol desetih
  [Pohl deh-seh-teeh]
- MorningJutro
  [Yoo-troh]
- AfternoonPopoldne
  [Poh-pohl-dneh]
- EveningVečer
  [Veh-chehr]
- YesterdayVčeraj
  [Veh-cheh-rye]
- TodayDanes
  [Dah-nes]
- TomorrowJutri
  [Yoo-tree]
- 1Ena
  [Eh-nah]
- 2Dva
  [Dvah]
- 3Tri
  [Tree]
- 4Štiri
  [Shtee-ree]
- 5Pet
  [Peh-t]
- 6Šest
  [Shest]
- 7Sedem
  [Seh-dehm]
- 8Osem
  [Oh-sehm]
- 9Devet
  [Deh-veht]
- 10Deset
  [Deh-seht]
- Where's a/the...?Kje je...
  [Kyeh yeh...]
- What's the address?Kateri je naslov?
  [Ka-teh-ree yeh nah-slohv?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Mi lahko pokažete (na zemljevidu)?
  [Mee lah-koh poh-kah-zheh-teh (nah zehm-yeh-vee-doo)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Kdaj je naslednji (avtobus)?
  [Kdai yeh nah-sled-nee (ow-toh-boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ena vozovnica (do ...)
  [Eh-nah voh-zohv-nee-tsah (doh ...)]

History of Lent

Lent, the oldest part of Maribor, traces its roots back to the late 12th century when the settlement emerged as a crucial port along the Drava River. Initially, it served as a trading hub due to its strategic location, facilitating commerce between the regions of Styria and the broader Habsburg Empire.
By the 13th century, Lent became known for its vibrant market, which attracted merchants and traders from across the region. This market was pivotal in the economic development of Maribor, allowing local artisans to showcase their goods and fostering a sense of community.
Lent has long been a center for cultural and religious activities. The Church of St. John the Baptist, built in the 15th century, stands as a testament to the area’s spiritual heritage. Lent has hosted numerous religious festivals and processions, reflecting the community's deep-rooted traditions.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Habsburgs played a significant role in shaping Lent's architectural landscape. The construction of defensive walls and fortifications contributed to the neighborhood's historical significance as a bastion against Ottoman incursions.
In recent decades, Lent has experienced a renaissance, revitalized by cultural events such as the Lent Festival, which celebrates music, arts, and culinary traditions. This annual festival draws visitors from all over Slovenia and beyond, emphasizing Lent’s importance as a cultural hub in Maribor.
Lent is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the old buildings lining the riverfront. The iconic Lent Old Bridge and the nearby Judgement Tower are significant landmarks that reflect the historical architectural styles prevalent during the Middle Ages.

Lent Essentials

Lent is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Maribor. If you're arriving by train, the Maribor Train Station is the closest major station, located about 2 kilometers from Lent. You can take a local bus (lines 1, 2, or 3) that stops near the riverbank. Alternatively, walking from the train station to Lent takes approximately 25 minutes. If you're in the city center, Lent is just a short stroll across the Drava River via the pedestrian bridge.
Lent is a compact neighborhood, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, with rental stations available throughout the area. Public transport options include local buses that connect to other parts of Maribor. For a more scenic route, consider renting a kayak to paddle along the Drava River. Taxis are available and can be hailed on the street or booked via apps.
Lent is generally considered a safe area for tourists. However, standard safety precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially during events or festivals. Areas around the main bus station and less populated outskirts may have higher crime rates; it's advisable to remain vigilant in those locations.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in Slovenia. The local police station, as well as medical facilities, are situated within a short distance from Lent. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the neighborhood, often with English-speaking staff.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes, especially when walking along the river. Don't wear overly casual or beachwear when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting churches, which may require modest attire. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly. Don't talk loudly or play music on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Dober dan' (Good day). Don't be overly familiar; a handshake is usually sufficient. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and traditional dishes. Don't waste food; it's considered impolite to leave significant portions uneaten.
To experience Lent like a local, visit the 'Lent Festival' if you’re in town during summer; it showcases local music, food, and culture. Take a walk along the Drava River in the early morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and meet local joggers. Try to attend a wine tasting at one of the nearby wine cellars, and don't hesitate to chat with locals at the open-air markets for recommendations on hidden gems in the area.

Enchanting Lent: The Heartbeat of Maribor

Local tips in Lent