Old Town Centre

Gornja Radgona is a historic town on the banks of the River Mura, whose old town core consists of Spodnji Gris and Gornji Gris. From its earliest days, the town was closely connected with Radkersburg by a wooden bridge that enabled trade in salt, wine, grain, and livestock. This bridge, the lifeline of the region, was the stage for many important historical events, though it was often destroyed by natural disasters. In 1929, it was finally demolished by blocks of ice, and in 1930, a reinforced concrete bridge was built, symbolizing progress. Later, in 1969, a modern 111-meter-long bridge was opened, ceremonially inaugurated by Josip Broz Tito and Austrian President Franz Jonas.

The settlement grew beneath the slopes of Castle Hill at the end of the 13th century, developing into a roadside market town. Over time, Spodnji Gris evolved into the recognizable town centre, with characteristic architecture such as houses with portals, balconies, and arcades. Gornja Radgona became an important centre of trade and crafts, where tanning, blacksmithing, milling, and tailoring flourished.

Gornja Radgona is also one of the centres of Slovenian viticulture, with roots stretching back to Roman times. In the 14th century, the townspeople obtained privileges to trade wine throughout Styria and Austria, which greatly boosted the development of winemaking. Among the most significant historical figures in this tradition were the Klainošek and Bouvier families. In 1849, the Klainošek brothers founded the company “Bratje Klainošek” and, just three years later in 1852, produced the first Radgona sparkling wine (Radgonska penina) using the traditional champagne method. Their wines earned numerous international awards and became a symbol of quality.

The Bouvier family also played an important role. In 1882, Clotar Bouvier established “Sekt- und Weinkellerei Bouvier”, renowned for producing premium wines and sparkling wines. After the Second World War, the companies were nationalized, but the tradition continued under the name Radgonska klet, which today produces renowned wines and sparkling wines such as Radgonska penina, Dišeči Traminec (Aromatic Traminer), and Janževec. Radgonska klet is not only a leader in winemaking but also a major tourist attraction, where visitors can explore its historic cellars, including the Cellar beneath the Stone and the Cellar beneath the Roman Wheel.