Glavni Trg

Square in Maribor

Glavni Trg is the historic heart of Maribor and the city’s most prominent public space. As the main square, it has been a focal point for civic life, commerce, and social gatherings for centuries. Its open layout allows visitors to stroll freely, admire the architecture, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere, with cafés, shops, and restaurants lining the edges of the square. The combination of historical significance and modern activity makes Glavni Trg a lively hub at any time of year.

Maribor Town Hall

One of the key buildings surrounding Glavni Trg is Maribor Town Hall. Originally built in 1515 and remodeled in Renaissance style between 1563 and 1565, the Town Hall later received a 19th-century late Classical renovation before being restored to its 16th-century appearance. Serving as the city’s administrative center for centuries, it remains an iconic landmark, with a striking façade and central balcony that have witnessed many historical events.

Religious Landmarks

The square is also close to Maribor Cathedral, or the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, which adds a Gothic architectural presence to the area. This cathedral serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Maribor and is the resting place of Bishop Anton Martin Slomšek, a key figure in Slovene culture. Its intricate interior, spires, and stained glass windows make it a major draw for visitors exploring the Old Town.

Plague Column

At the center of Glavni Trg stands the Plague Column, a Baroque monument commemorating the plague that struck Maribor in 1680, killing a third of the population. Sculpted by Josef Straub and completed in 1743, it features a marble Corinthian column topped with a golden statue of Mary. The surrounding statues of saints are replicas, with the originals preserved in the Maribor Regional Archives. The Plague Column is both a historical memorial and a striking artistic centerpiece in the square.

Other Monuments and Surrounding Architecture

Beyond the Town Hall and Plague Column, Glavni Trg is framed by a variety of architectural styles, including Renaissance, Baroque, and modern influences. Decorative façades, historic buildings, and smaller monuments create a rich visual tapestry. The square’s central location also makes it a starting point for walking tours that explore nearby landmarks such as Maribor Castle, the Old Vine House, and cultural institutions like the Slovenian National Theatre. Together, these features make Glavni Trg the beating heart of Maribor’s Old Town.

The Glavni Trg appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Maribor!

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