The City of Maribor applied for the prestigious Tree Cities of the World recognition – and proudly joined the network of 210 cities across the globe that are committed to the care and sustainable management of urban trees. The title is awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation and the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), confirming Maribor’s strong commitment to green spaces and sustainable urban development.

Maribor earned this title by meeting five key standards for urban tree management. The city maintains a clear structure of responsibility between municipal staff and external experts, follows an official tree management policy, and regularly monitors the condition of its urban forest. Dedicated resources are allocated to the care and maintenance of city trees, and public awareness is fostered through events that celebrate Maribor’s green heritage.

With around 13,000 trees growing on public land, Maribor is rich in arboreal diversity. Some trees in the City Park are over 160 years old. Notable specimens include one of the thickest plane trees in Slovenia, a rare almond tree growing further north than usual, and towering sequoias and hornbeams.

This international recognition shows that Maribor is not only a city of history and culture, but also a forward-looking urban environment that respects and protects nature.