Preservation of the old variety “Strunjan artichoke” and its integration into the agricultural production of Slovenian Istria
Acronym: “Strunjanska artičoka” (Strunjan artichoke)
Project duration: January 1, 2026 – January 1, 2028
Total project value: €124,956.51
EAFRD co-financing share: €99,965.21
The partners of the project “Preservation of the old variety Strunjan artichoke and its integration into the agricultural production of Slovenian Istria” have started implementing project activities aimed at preserving the indigenous local artichoke variety as an important part of the natural and cultural heritage of Strunjan and Slovenian Istria. By preserving and promoting this local variety, the project also encourages the development of local self-sufficiency and the sustainable development of the Slovenian Istria countryside.
The project connects local stakeholders, associations, scientific research institutions, and the managers of the protected area, striving through a joint approach to contribute to the promotion of sustainable agriculture, the preservation of biodiversity, and the intergenerational transfer of knowledge. This encourages the cultivation of local varieties that are better adapted to the climatic conditions of Slovenian Istria. The “Strunjan artichoke” variety and its use in local gastronomy will be presented to the wider public. An important part of the activities also includes gathering local knowledge, stories, and methods of artichoke preparation passed down through generations of the local population. Special emphasis will be placed on intergenerational cooperation and the inclusion of various groups of the local population in preserving knowledge about the cultivation and use of the Strunjan artichoke.
Within the scope of the project, new artichoke plantations will be established, and seedlings will be grown for promotional events. Genetic analyses of the variety will also be carried out to research and confirm its uniqueness. For the long-term preservation of the variety, a mother plantation of the “Strunjan artichoke” will be established, containing genetically pure seedlings for propagation and the preservation of the variety’s genetic material. For promotional purposes, two multi-day events called “Artichoke Days” will be organized, taking place in May 2026 and 2027. As part of intergenerational cooperation and the involvement of various groups of the local population in preserving knowledge about the cultivation and use of the Strunjan artichoke, workshops for children will be organized. Promotional and educational materials will also be prepared to present the variety and the importance of its preservation.
Project partners: * Public Institute Landscape Park Strunjan
University of Primorska
Vrtnarstvo Moretini d.o.o.
Tourist Association Solinar Strunjan
Giassi Farm
Knez Homestead
The project is implemented within the LAS Zelena Istra (LAG Green Istria) and is co-financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) under the SN SKP 2023–2027 (LEADER/CLLD).
