The Grape – A Symbol of Heritage and Vitality
The grape symbolizes the livelihood of the community and its local businesses, while also representing future development rooted in historical traditions. It stands for fertile land, prosperity, and joyful people.
It is the emblem of Glanz, once the second-largest winegrowing community in Styria, and has been officially featured in its coat of arms since 1955.
It was therefore a logical step to construct the world’s largest grape in this beautiful setting – surrounded by gentle hills, countless vineyards, and vibrant greenery – on the Eory Hill in Leutschach. The sculpture is made of stainless steel with colorful, artfully crafted glass inlays representing the grape berries. This impressive grape structure stands 5 meters tall, 4 meters wide, and nearly 2 meters deep.
To illustrate the annual cycle of viticulture – from vineyard work and cellar vinification to the first sip of the noble juice – local artist Willi Trojan designed this grape with 365 berries representing the days of the year, plus an additional one for leap years. The 52 components of the sculpture (50 leaves, trunk, and grape) symbolize the weeks of the year. The 31 small leaves represent the days of a month, the 12 medium-sized leaves stand for the months of the year, and the 7 large leaves represent the days of the week.
How do I get to the world's largest glass grape?
Southern Styria offers many ways to explore the landscape. On foot, you can enjoy varied hikes along the “Kleeblatt” (cloverleaf) trails 3 and 3b or the Glanz Farm Tours 1 and 2. If you prefer cycling, you can either take the route from the Wine Road exit via Pößnitz to Großwalz or follow the South Styrian Wine Road exit while taking in the scenic views.
The region is also easy to explore by car: From Leutschach, follow the Wine Road, turn right at the Juritsch Winery, and continue along the road – a relaxed drive through a picturesque wine landscape.
Where can I stop for culinary delights?
You’ll also find plenty of culinary experiences along the way. Excellent places to dine and unwind include Muster Bernhard, Sabathihof, Gut Pössnitzberg, and Hermannhof. Juritsch and Stelzl Bernhard also offer delicious regional fare and inviting atmospheres. In addition, many other wineries along the route serve local specialties and outstanding wines – perfect spots to experience the warm hospitality of Southern Styria to the fullest.