Judgement Tower (Sodni stolp) stands in Maribor's Lent district, near the former river port and the lower part of the city market. Its predecessor was built in 1310, while the present circular structure dates to reconstruction between 1548 and 1562. As part of the medieval city defences, it protected Maribor's south-western corner. Its location and shape also gave rise to the names Port Tower, Round Tower and Monastery Tower.
The tower changed considerably over the centuries. In the 19th century, it was heightened and used as a warehouse, before a fire damaged it in 1937. Its most distinctive feature is the massive circular structure with a conical tiled roof. Although its name is associated with the city's former judicial authority, historical records do not confirm the popular stories of witch trials taking place inside.
Restored in 2021, the tower is now part of the Minoriti Cultural Quarter. Two event spaces, on the ground and first floors, host concerts, theatrical performances, exhibitions and other cultural events. Its historic walls now provide a setting for contemporary artistic activity.
Contact
Location
2000 Maribor Show direction