Maribor timber rafters

Although traditional log rafting (flosarstvo) has disappeared as an economic activity, the memory of it is still cherished in Maribor and the surrounding area today. Various associations, such as the Društvo starih flosarjev, preserve the tradition with events, re-enactments of voyages, and tourist presentations. Every year, rafting events are organized in different places along the Drava River, including Maribor, where visitors can learn about the lifestyle and work of the former rafters.

History of the Maribor Rafters

Log rafting on the Drava developed as early as the Middle Ages and remained highly important until the 19th century, when it was gradually displaced by railways and roads. Maribor was one of the key ports for rafters, as it was an important commercial and craft center. Here, rafters often sold timber or rested in the city before continuing their journey.

The rafts were made from large wooden logs bound together into long floats. People would travel on them for several days, sleeping, cooking, and living directly on the rafts. The rafter’s trade was dangerous, as the Drava had strong currents, rapids, and hazardous rocky ledges.